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Public vs. Private: What to Expect from a Singapore Hospital Ward
When choosing between a public and private hospital ward in Singapore, the main differences often come down to cost, comfort, and access to care. Both options deliver reliable medical treatment, but private wards can prioritize speed, privacy, and personalized service.
This Pacific Prime CXA article will look at the hospital ward options in the Lion City and help you make an informed decision before admission.
Key Differences Between the Public and Private Hospitals in Singapore
The main differences between Singapore’s public and private hospitals revolve around wait times, appointments, doctors, equipment, and patient comfort. Both sectors provide excellent care, but the experience can vary greatly depending on your choice.
Wait Times
Public hospitals face longer queues due to high patient demand. In 2025, reports from Singapore’s Ministry of Health show wait times of 2–12 hours for admission to wards at public hospitals such as Alexandra Hospital, Changi General Hospital, and Ng Teng Fong General Hospital.
In contrast, private hospitals in Singapore usually admit patients within an hour of seeing an emergency room doctor, offering faster access to treatment.
Faster admission times are a major reason why many expats and private patients choose private hospitals in Singapore, particularly when urgent treatment or specialist care is required.
Appointments
Public hospitals operate on a first-come, first-served model, with urgent cases given priority. This often delays non-urgent care. Private hospitals, with lower patient volumes and higher staff ratios, can guarantee quicker appointments and consultations.
Doctors and Hospital Staff
Both sectors employ world-class doctors, but private hospitals often attract more senior physicians due to competitive salaries. Many private specialists were previously trained in public hospitals, bringing years of expertise to their roles.
Private hospitals also tend to have higher hospital staff and nurse-to-patient ratios, which often translate into more attentive care and an overall better service experience.
Equipment and Technology
Singapore’s public hospitals are well-equipped with modern medical technology. However, private hospitals often invest in cutting-edge machines and innovative treatments thanks to larger budgets. Patients may benefit from access to newer diagnostic tools and therapies.
Comfort and Amenities
Beyond medical care, comfort in public and private hospitals can differ significantly. Public hospitals offer ward classes from shared rooms to A-class private rooms, with subsidies for citizens and PRs. Private hospitals typically provide single or luxury suites with hotel-like facilities.
The Different Singapore Hospital Ward Types
Both public and private hospitals in Singapore provide safe and comfortable wards, but the level of privacy and amenities varies. Generally, the higher the cost of the ward, the better the facilities. Understanding your options helps you balance recovery needs with budget.
What to Expect From a Public Hospital Ward
Public hospitals offer a range of ward classes, from basic shared rooms with minimal amenities to modest private rooms with air-conditioning and attached bathrooms. Citizens and PRs receive government subsidies in lower-class wards, making them more affordable.
Here are sample room rates from some of Singapore’s most popular public hospitals, giving you a clearer idea of what to expect when choosing between different ward classes.
1. Singapore General Hospital*
| Room type and amenities | Rate (SGD) |
Standard ward class C – Up to 8 beds in a room
|
From $44.70 per day |
Standard ward type B2 – Up to 6 beds in a room
|
From $62.70 per day |
Standard ward type B1 – 4 beds in a room
|
From $358.72 per day |
Standard ward class A – Single room
|
From $720.60 per day |
2. Changi Hospital*
| Room type and amenities | Rate (SGD) |
| Standard ward class C – Open ward | From $289.00 per day |
| Standard ward class B2 – Up to 6 beds | From $374.00 per day |
| Standard ward class B1 – Up to 4 beds | From $374.00 per day |
| Standard ward class A – Single bed | From $765.00 per day |
Note: Details of ward offerings are not available.
3. KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital*
| Room type and amenities | Rate (SGD) |
Standard ward class C – Up to 8 beds (Children’s wards only)
|
From $43.10 per day |
Standard ward class C – Up to 6 beds (Women wards only)
|
From $43.10 per day |
Standard ward class B2 – Up to 6 beds
|
From $75.60 per day |
Standard ward class B2+ – Up to 5 beds
|
From $221.40 per day |
Standard ward class B1 – Up to 4 beds
|
From $369.18 per day |
Standard ward class A1 – Single bed
|
From $713.84 per day |
* Note: The numbers in this article are up to date as of September 2025. All prices are subject to change without prior notice. For the most accurate cost for your treatment, please inquire at the hospital directly.
What to Expect From a Private Hospital Ward
Private hospitals in Singapore are known for their luxury, with rooms often compared to five-star hotels. Facilities range from single rooms to deluxe suites with premium services. Below are examples from leading private hospitals, including room types, amenities, and daily rates.
1. Gleneagles Singapore**
| Room type and amenities | Rate (SGD) |
Single Room – 1 bed
|
From $850.00 per day |
Single Heritage Room
|
From $988.00 per day |
4-bedded Room
|
From $290.00 per day |
Executive Suite
|
From $1,461.00 per day |
Tanglin Suite
|
From $6,898.00 per day |
Gleneagles Suite
|
From $8,565.00 per day |
2. Parkway East Hospital**
| Room type and amenities | Rate (SGD) |
Single Room
|
From $806.00 per day |
2-Bedded Room
|
From $378.00 per day |
4-Bedded Room
|
From $271.00 per day |
Deluxe Room
|
From $950.00 per day |
Orchid/Hibiscus Suite
|
From $1,048.00 per day |
3. Mount Elizabeth Hospital**
| Room type and amenities | Rate (SGD) |
Single Room (Orchard)
|
From $931.00 per day |
4-Bedded Room (Orchard)
|
From $309.00 per day |
Single Deluxe (Orchard)
|
From $1,461.00 per day |
VIP Suite (Orchard)
|
From $4,543.00 per day |
Royal Suite (Orchard)
|
From $6,371.00 per day |
** Note: The numbers in this article are up to date as of September 2025. All prices are subject to change without prior notice. For the most accurate cost for your treatment, please inquire at the hospital directly.
Find the Right Coverage for Your Hospital Stay
Whether you’re a local or an expat, choosing between Singapore’s public and private hospital wards comes down to cost, comfort, and access to care. Having the right health insurance ensures you can focus on your recovery without worrying about unexpected bills.
With decades of experience and a strong presence in Singapore, Pacific Prime CXA helps individuals and families secure comprehensive plans that cover both public and private hospitals. Our advisors will compare options from leading insurers and offer a free, no-obligation quote tailored to your needs.
Take the next step today—get in touch with us to explore our health insurance plans and get expert support in finding coverage that gives you peace of mind and flexibility in Singapore’s healthcare system.
Serena earned her Bachelor’s Degree in Psychology from the University of British Columbia, Canada. As such, she is an avid advocate of mental health and is fascinated by all things psychology (especially if it’s cognitive psychology!).
Her previous work experience includes teaching toddlers to read, writing for a travel/wellness online magazine, and then a business news blog. These combined experiences give her the skills and insights she needs to explain complex ideas in a succinct way. Being the daughter of an immigrant and a traveler herself, she is passionate about educating expats and digital nomads on travel and international health insurance.
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