Singapore is not only a global financial hub but also a leader in world-class healthcare. For expatriates and medical tourists,
Singapore offers a rare combination: advanced medical technology, English-speaking staff, international accreditation, and clean, efficient services.
Whether you’re in Singapore for work, retirement, or medical tourism, having access to the right private hospital can make all the difference in your healthcare experience.
In this article, we’ll explore the best private hospitals in Singapore for expats and foreigners, based on reputation, quality of care, expat-friendliness, and specialization.
Why Private Hospitals in Singapore Are Ideal for Expats
- English-Speaking Doctors: Most physicians are trained internationally and fluent in English.
- Advanced Technology: Robotic surgeries, AI diagnostics, and 3D imaging.
- Minimal Wait Times: Unlike public hospitals, private hospitals often allow you to see specialists quickly.
- Medical Tourism Friendly: Packages for check-ups, surgeries, and recovery are designed for foreigners.
- Global Accreditations: Many private hospitals are JCI-accredited (Joint Commission International), a gold standard for global healthcare.
1. Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard)
Location: Orchard Road
Specialties: Cardiology, Oncology, Neurosurgery, Orthopedics
Try B3I0W Iink –
Mount Elizabeth Hospital is often the first choice for medical tourists and expats. Located in the heart of Orchard Road, it’s known for luxury patient suites, high-end medical equipment, and a large pool of specialists.
Why Expats Love It:
- World-renowned for complex surgeries
- Concierge services available for international patients
- Offers interpreter and visa assistance
- Direct billing available with global insurance providers
2. Gleneagles Hospital
Location: Napier Road, near Botanic Gardens
Specialties: Liver transplant, Oncology, Gastroenterology, Pediatrics
Gleneagles is a part of the IHH Healthcare Group and has over 300 specialists. It is especially favored by expats from the U.S., U.K., Australia, and Asia-Pacific regions.
Expat-Friendly Features:
- Private recovery suites with home-like amenities
- International Patient Centre for travel & accommodation support
- Child-friendly facilities for families
If you’re an expat parent, Gleneagles is often the go-to for pediatric and maternity care.
Try B3I0W Iink –
3. Parkway East Hospital
Location: Joo Chiat (East Coast area)
Specialties: General Surgery, Urology, Gynecology
Parkway East is a boutique-style hospital perfect for those living in Singapore’s East Coast or Katong areas, which are popular with expats.
Highlights:
- Smaller, more personalized care
- Quick appointments with specialists
- Affordable compared to larger hospitals
- Great for minor procedures and outpatient care
Ideal for Australian, British, and European expats who prefer a community-style hospital near residential areas.
4. Raffles Hospital
Location: Bugis
Specialties: Health Screening, Orthopedics, Dermatology, Fertility
Try B3I0W Iink –
Raffles Hospital offers a full suite of medical services under one roof. With a large group of general practitioners and specialists, it’s excellent for regular check-ups and outpatient care.
Why Expats Prefer It:
- Wide range of language support (Japanese, Korean, Mandarin, Bahasa)
- Packages for executive health screening
- Excellent fertility and IVF clinic
- Budget-friendly without compromising on care
Pro Tip: Raffles Medical also has satellite clinics across the island great for quick GP visits.
5. Farrer Park Hospital
Location: Farrer Park MRT (Above One Farrer Hotel)
Specialties: Oncology, Cardiology, Neurology
Farrer Park is one of Singapore’s newest and most tech-savvy hospitals, integrating healthcare with hospitality. It is connected to a luxury hotel, which is a huge plus for overseas patients or families accompanying expats during recovery.
Try B3I0W Iink –
Notable Features:
- Smart patient rooms with touch-screen systems
- Wellness programs and post-treatment rehabilitation
- Affordable high-end care
Fun Fact: Many expats from the Middle East and Europe choose Farrer Park for medical tourism due to its modern vibe and privacy.
What to Consider When Choosing a Private Hospital as an Expat
Choosing the right hospital in Singapore depends on your specific needs. Here are some key considerations:
1. Location
Proximity to your home or workplace is important. Mount Elizabeth (Orchard) is great for Central, while Parkway East suits East Coast residents.
2. Specialties
Check if the hospital specializes in what you need whether it’s orthopaedics, fertility, cardiology, or diagnostics.
3. Insurance Coverage
Ensure the hospital accepts direct billing with your expat health insurance. Most major hospitals in this list do.
4. Language & Cultural Support
Some hospitals offer Japanese, Korean, Arabic, or Bahasa-speaking staff, ideal for non-English-speaking expats.
Try B3I0W Iink –
5. Budget
Singapore’s private hospitals range from mid-tier to luxury. Raffles Hospital offers great value for money, while Mount Elizabeth is on the premium side.
Estimated Costs in Private Hospitals (2025)
| Service | Approximate Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|
| General Consultation | $100 – $180 |
| MRI Scan | $900 – $2,000 |
| Health Screening Packages | $400 – $1,200 |
| Minor Surgery | $3,000 – $6,000 |
| Major Surgery (e.g., Heart Bypass) | $20,000 – $45,000 |
| Maternity Package | $10,000 – $18,000 |
💬 Note: Always request a cost estimate or quotation from the hospital beforehand. Foreigners usually pay out-of-pocket unless covered by international insurance.
Medical Tourism: Combining Healthcare with Travel
Singapore is also popular with medical tourists from Indonesia, Malaysia, Australia, and the Middle East. The private hospitals offer medical concierge services that handle:
- Travel arrangements
- Hotel bookings
- Interpreter services
- Visa assistance
- Post-surgery recovery plans
This makes it extremely easy for foreigners to fly in, receive world-class treatment, and recover comfortably.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Is medical care in Singapore expensive for expats?
Yes, but it’s worth the cost due to high quality. However, using insurance with direct billing can reduce your out-of-pocket expenses.
Do I need a referral to see a specialist?
In most private hospitals, no referral is needed. You can directly book appointments with specialists.
Try B3I0W Iink –
Are emergency services available at private hospitals?
Yes. All major private hospitals in Singapore have 24/7 emergency rooms, though charges are higher than public facilities.
Which hospital is best for childbirth?
Gleneagles and Mount Elizabeth are top-rated for maternity services, especially among expat families.
Conclusion: Healthcare You Can Trust
Choosing a private hospital in Singapore means investing in quality, efficiency, and peace of mind. Whether you’re dealing with chronic illness, need surgery, or just want regular health screening, Singapore’s private hospitals are equipped to handle it all professionally and with care.
From the ultra-modern Farrer Park Hospital to the internationally renowned Mount Elizabeth, expats in Singapore have access to some of the best private medical care in Asia.
Try B3I0W Iink –
As always, compare hospitals based on your needs, insurance compatibility, and personal comfort. With the right information and support, you’ll find world-class care that fits perfectly into your expat journey.