Many patients do find that their prescriptions are cheaper in Singapore's public hospitals and national specialty centres (such as NSC). This is due to the following reasons:
1. Benefit from bulk purchasing
2. Use of generic drugs
3. Additional government subsidies for medications [applicable only if:
a) The patient is eligible to receive and has opted for subsidised care
b) The medication is on the list of MOH subsidised drugs
Conversely, this also means that a patient who is not receiving subsidised care, or has been prescribed non-generic or uncommon medications may not find any difference in their prescription price compared to private clinics.
More information can be found at:
https://www.moh.gov.sg/cost-financing/healthcare-schemes-subsidies/drug-subsidies-schemes
https://www.moh.gov.sg/cost-financing/healthcare-schemes-subsidies/drug-subsidies-schemes>
https://www.nsc.com.sg/Patient-Guide/Patient-Information/Pages/Consultation-Fees.aspx
https://www.nsc.com.sg/Patient-Guide/Patient-Information/Pages/Consultation-Fees.aspx
Dr Lim Yen Loo, on behalf of Dermatology Society of Singapore
