Comparative Assessments of Similar Medical Procedures across Countries to Understand Cost Variations

9 Mr Yip Hon Weng asked the Minister for Health (a) whether the Ministry has conducted comparative assessments of similar medical procedures across different countries to understand the medical cost variations; (b) whether the Ministry can provide details on the factors contributing to higher medical costs in Singapore, particularly the role played by our healthcare insurance system; and (c) whether the Government will consider conducting bi-annual reviews of all healthcare charges to ensure they are fair and affordable.

The Senior Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister for Health (Ms Rahayu Mahzam) (for the Minister for Health): Generally, it is not advisable to compare individual medical procedure costs across jurisdictions. Quality, labour market conditions, model of care and protocols can be different. While one treatment may be less costly in a foreign country compared to Singapore, there may be other treatments where Singapore is more affordable than the same foreign country.

Ultimately, we have to moderate healthcare costs through a holistic approach, including value-based care, developing fee benchmarks, instil discipline in insurance, rely on cost effective treatment and focusing on preventive care and population health.