[Post 530] Why Are Healthcare Costs Rising In Singapore – Is There Really Nothing We Can Do About It?

Summary

Healthcare costs are on the rise all over the world, including in Singapore, because of factors ranging from inflation to ageing populations. As of 2021, the government accounted for more than half of Singapore’s healthcare expenditure, while a fifth comes out of individuals’ pockets.

Some are asking: Why can’t healthcare be free, or why aren’t there more subsidies? The short answer: Sustainably financing healthcare requires careful balancing.

CNA Insider speaks to hospital frontliners, an economist and others to uncover what’s driving healthcare costs up — and how these can be managed. To ensure that healthcare remains affordable for all, the government is raising MediShield Life premiums from April 2025 to support higher claim limits and expanded coverage for more treatments such as cell, tissue and gene therapy. 

 

(Video produced in partnership with the Ministry of Health.)