If you are looking for the best medical care in Asia, Singapore General Hospital (SGH) is likely on your list. It is the oldest and largest hospital in Singapore. It is also ranked among the best in the world.
But navigating a massive hospital can be confusing. You might be wondering about the costs. You might want to know if you should go as a private or subsidized patient. You might also worry about insurance claims.
This guide covers everything you need to know. We look at the best services, the costs for 2026, and how to get an appointment quickly.
Why Choose Singapore General Hospital?
SGH is not just a regular hospital. It is an academic medical center. This means they do research and teach new doctors. Because of this, they have access to the latest technology and treatments before other places do.
They are famous for their Centres of Excellence. These are special departments focused on specific diseases.
- National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS): For advanced cancer treatment and robotic surgery.
- National Heart Centre Singapore (NHCS): For complex heart surgeries and transplants.
- Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC): For laser vision correction and cataract surgery.
If you have a complex health issue, SGH is often the safest place to be.
The Cost: Private vs. Subsidized Wards
This is the most important part for your wallet. In Singapore, the price you pay depends on your “ward class.”
If you are a Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident (PR), you can get subsidies. If you are a foreigner or an international patient, you will pay “private rates.”
Estimated Daily Ward Charges (2026)
Here is a breakdown of what you might pay for a room per day. These prices are estimates and can change.
| Ward Class | Patient Type | Comfort Level | Est. Daily Cost (SGD) |
| Class A | Private | Single Room, Air-con, TV, Private Bath | $765+ |
| Class B1 | Private | 4-Bedded, Air-con, TV | $383+ |
| Class B2 | Subsidized | 6-Bedded, Natural Ventilation | $83+ |
| Class C | Subsidized | 8-Bedded, Natural Ventilation | $40+ |
Note for Insurance: If you have a private Integrated Shield Plan (IP) or international health insurance, you likely want Class A or B1. These plans often cover the higher costs of private rooms. Always check your “Letter of Guarantee” with your insurance agent before admission. This can save you thousands of dollars in cash deposits.
Hidden Costs to Watch Out For
The room rate is just the start. You also need to budget for:
- Daily Treatment Fees: Doctors visit you every day, and they charge a fee each time.
- Consumables: Things like bandages, drips, and surgical tools.
- Tests: MRI scans, X-rays, and blood tests add up fast.
- Surgery Fees: The surgeon and the anesthetist charge separate fees.
How to Get an Appointment
Getting into SGH can be done in two ways. The method you choose affects how much you pay.
1. The Subsidized Route (Cheaper)
Use this if you are a local and want to save money.
- Go to a Polyclinic first.
- Ask the doctor for a referral to SGH.
- Wait time: This can take weeks or months. You cannot choose your specific doctor.
2. The Private Route (Faster)
Use this if you have insurance or want to see a specific senior consultant.
- Call the SGH appointment line directly.
- Tell them you want to see a specific specialist.
- Wait time: Usually very fast. You might get an appointment within a few days.
What to Bring for Admission
If you are going for surgery or an overnight stay, pack light but smart.
- Identity Card / Passport: Crucial for registration.
- Medical Reports: Bring old X-rays or reports if you have them.
- Insurance Card: Or your Letter of Guarantee.
- Personal Items: Slippers, a toothbrush, and a phone charger.
- Warm Jacket: Hospitals in Singapore are air-conditioned and can get very cold.
Visiting Hours
SGH is strict about visitors to ensure patients rest.
- General Wards: usually 12:00 PM to 8:00 PM.
- ICU: Limited to 2 visitors at a time.
Specialized Treatments worth Paying For
SGH offers some treatments that are hard to find elsewhere. If you have high-coverage insurance, you should ask about these.
- Robotic Surgery: Using the Da Vinci robot for precise cuts and faster healing.
- Proton Therapy: A type of radiation that targets cancer cells without damaging healthy tissue nearby.
- Immunotherapy: Using your body’s own immune system to fight diseases.
These treatments are expensive, which is why having a comprehensive health insurance plan is vital. Without insurance, the out-of-pocket costs for these advanced therapies can be very high.
Making Your Final Decision
Choosing SGH means choosing quality. Whether you go as a subsidized patient or a private patient, the medical care is excellent. The main difference is the comfort of the room and the speed of the service.
If you have a private hospital insurance plan, utilizing the Private/Class A route at SGH is often a smart financial move. You get the best doctors in the country with the comfort of a private suite, all covered by your policy.
Check your insurance policy today to see if “Government Restructured Hospitals” like SGH are covered under your private or international plan.