LOOK BEYOND STICKER PRICE, SAYS EXPERT
Lower treatment costs are a significant draw for patients considering healthcare procedures across the Causeway.
Savings for procedures performed in Malaysia instead of Singapore ranged from 24 to 74 per cent, according to a 2025 study done by the ISEAS-Yusof Ishak Institute, a Singapore-based think-tank.
The savings were estimated at 74 per cent for in-vitro fertilisation (IVF), 37 per cent for knee replacement surgery and 24 per cent for heart bypass surgery.
But cheaper procedure prices do not necessarily mean patients will pay less overall, said Mr Francis Hoan, associate director of financial advisory at Financial Alliance.
“The entire treatment cost is not just a procedure price, but it consists of consultation, pre-op test, the procedure itself, hospital stay, anaesthetist, specialist fees, medication, and follow-up visits, or even complications,” said Mr Hoan.
“Don’t compare just the sticker price but compare the total cost.”
He added that patients should factor in accommodation for each trip, time taken off work and what MediSave will and will not cover overseas.
Patients should also consider their insurance coverage when comparing treatment in Singapore and Malaysia, said Mr Hoan.
“Most Integrated Shield Plans and MediShield Life don’t cover overseas private treatment, so the cheap price may be fully self-paid versus a small copayment locally,” he pointed out.
Planned, lower-complexity procedures with limited follow-up care are more likely to make financial sense for patients considering treatment across the border, he said.