The cost and fees for different surgery by the gynaes in Singapore
Undergoing gynaecological surgery is a significant decision, and understanding the potential costs involved is a crucial part of the planning process. In Singapore, the total bill for a procedure can vary widely based on the type of surgery, the choice of a gynae in Singapore between public and private hospitals, and the complexity of your individual case. This guide provides a detailed overview of the costs and fees associated with common gynaecological surgeries in Singapore, along with an explanation of the financial support schemes available to help manage these expenses.
A Guide to Gynaecological Surgery Costs in Singapore
Hysterectomy
A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus, and sometimes the cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. It is often recommended for conditions like large fibroids, severe endometriosis, uterine prolapse, or certain cancers . Due to its complexity, it is one of the more costly gynaecological procedures. The total cost varies significantly depending on the surgical method (e.g., abdominal, vaginal, or laparoscopic) and the extent of the surgery.
Based on data from the Ministry of Health (MOH), the median hospital bill for a hysterectomy (TOSP code SI712U) in a private hospital is SGD $30,442, with a typical range between SGD $25,725 and $35,116 . For a more comprehensive total hysterectomy with removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes, the estimated total bill at a private hospital can range from SGD $41,272 to $53,336 . This higher-end figure often includes the surgeon’s and anaesthetist’s fees, as well as hospital charges for an overnight stay in a single room.
For reference, MOH recommends that for a routine case in a private hospital, the surgeon fee should reasonably range from SGD $8,175 to $12,753 (inclusive of GST), with anaesthetist fees between SGD $1,962 and $2,834 .
Laparoscopic Surgery (e.g., for Ovarian Cysts, Fibroids)
Laparoscopy, or keyhole surgery, is a minimally invasive technique used to diagnose and treat various conditions, including ovarian cysts, fibroids, and endometriosis . This approach generally involves smaller incisions, leading to less pain and a quicker recovery compared to open surgery. The cost reflects the specialised equipment and expertise required.
The estimated total bill for a laparoscopic procedure in a private hospital typically ranges from SGD $7,200 to $11,570 . For endometriosis surgery specifically, which often involves laparoscopy, the cost in a private hospital is estimated to be between SGD $6,200 and $10,050 . According to MOH fee benchmarks, the surgeon fee for a laparoscopic procedure (under TOSP code SI700L) is recommended to be in the range of SGD $5,995 to $9,810 (inclusive of GST), with anaesthetist fees from SGD $1,962 to $2,834 .
Posterior Repair (Rectocele Repair)
Posterior repair is a procedure to correct a rectocele, a condition where the rectum bulges into the back wall of the vagina, often caused by weakened pelvic floor muscles. This is a common surgery for pelvic organ prolapse.
For this procedure (TOSP code SI815V), the Ministry of Health recommends that a reasonable surgeon fee for a routine case in a private hospital ranges from SGD $2,398 to $4,251 (inclusive of GST) . While anaesthetist fees are not listed in the search results for this specific code, they would be an additional cost, and patients should also budget for hospital fees, which cover ward stay, consumables, and medications.
Summary of Estimated Gynaecological Surgery Costs in Singapore
The table below provides a summary of the estimated costs for common gynaecological surgeries in private hospitals. These figures are estimates and actual bills may vary.
Key Factors Influencing the Final Bill
The final amount you pay for surgery is not a fixed price but is influenced by several factors :
- Type and Complexity of Surgery: A simple diagnostic laparoscopy will cost less than a complex surgery to remove extensive endometriosis or perform a radical hysterectomy for cancer.
- Hospital and Ward Choice: Private hospitals such as Mount Elizabeth, Gleneagles, and Thomson Medical have higher overall bills than subsidised wards in public hospitals like KKH or SGH. Choosing a higher-class ward (e.g., A or B1) will also increase costs.
- Surgeon and Anaesthetist Fees: Surgeons with extensive experience and subspecialty expertise may charge higher fees. The anaesthetist’s fee is a separate component of the bill.
- Pre- and Post-Surgery Expenses: The total cost includes pre-surgery consultations, diagnostic tests (like ultrasounds or MRIs), and post-operative follow-up visits and medications.
Understanding Financial Support: Medisave, MediShield Life, and Integrated Shield Plans
Singapore residents have several options to help cover these medical expenses.
Medisave
Medisave, part of the Central Provident Fund (CPF), can be used to pay for a portion of surgical procedures for the account holder and immediate family members. There are two main types of withdrawal limits:
- Daily Hospital Charges: For inpatient stays, you can withdraw up to SGD $1,130 per day for the first two days and SGD $400 per day from the third day onwards. For day surgery, the limit is SGD $830 per day.
- Surgical Procedure Withdrawal Limit: This is a fixed limit based on the procedure’s classification under the Table of Surgical Procedures (TOSP). For example, the Medisave limit for a laparoscopic surgery (TOSP 3C) is SGD $1,390, while for a hysterectomy (TOSP 5A), it is SGD $2,770.
MediShield Life
MediShield Life is a basic health insurance plan that helps to pay for large hospital bills and selected outpatient treatments. It provides additional coverage on top of Medisave, with claim limits also tied to the TOSP. For example, the MediShield Life claim limit for a laparoscopic surgery is SGD $1,920, and for a hysterectomy, it is SGD $3,270.
Integrated Shield Plans (IPs)
For those who prefer the flexibility of private hospitals or higher-class wards, Integrated Shield Plans (IPs), offered by private insurers, provide additional coverage on top of MediShield Life . Many IPs offer “as-charged” benefits for wards and procedures, subject to policy terms and annual limits. This can significantly reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
- Cashless Admission: With a Letter of Guarantee (LOG) from your insurer, you can often be admitted for your procedure without having to pay a large cash deposit upfront. The hospital bills the insurer directly for the covered portion.
- Co-Payment: Since 2019, new IP riders include a minimum 5% co-payment to encourage prudent healthcare consumption.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. What will my final out-of-pocket expense be if I have an Integrated Shield Plan?
With an IP that covers private hospital care, your out-of-pocket expense is typically the 5% co-payment (if your rider includes it) and any deductibles or non-covered items. For instance, for a laparoscopic surgery costing SGD $7,200, the 5% co-payment would be SGD $360, which could potentially be paid using your MediSave. For a more complex hysterectomy costing SGD $53,336, the 5% co-payment would be around SGD $2,666 . It is crucial to confirm the exact coverage and co-payment details with your insurer.
2. Does using Medisave or insurance affect the cost of surgery?
No, the fees charged by the surgeon and hospital are the same regardless of your payment method. Medisave and insurance are simply mechanisms to help you pay the bill. It’s a common misconception that insurance coverage inflates prices, but medical fees are set independently by the healthcare provider.
3. Can I use my Medisave for surgery if I choose a public hospital?
Yes, absolutely. Medisave can be used in both public and private hospitals. In fact, the total bill in a subsidised ward (such as B2 or C) at a public hospital will be much lower, and the Medisave withdrawal limits may be sufficient to cover a larger portion, or even all, of the hospital charges.
4. I have both an Integrated Shield Plan and company insurance. Which one do I claim first?
You can claim from multiple insurers, but the total payout cannot exceed your actual medical expenses. It is often advisable to file a claim with your employer’s group insurance first, as doing so with your IP might affect your future premiums under claims-based pricing. However, this can vary, so it’s best to discuss your specific situation with your insurer or financial advisor.
5. How do I ensure a smooth, cashless admission for my surgery?
To facilitate cashless admission, you should inform both the hospital and your insurer about your planned procedure well in advance. Your clinic can often assist with the paperwork to apply for a Letter of Guarantee (LOG) from your insurance provider. Once the LOG is issued and confirmed by the hospital, you can be admitted without needing to pay a deposit for the covered portions of your bill.
Want to learn more? read: How gynaes in Singapore help women achieve safe childbirth and quality pregnancy care
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