In July 2023, Singapore launched the Healthier SG programme—an ambitious nationwide strategy to encourage every resident to take charge of their own health. Unlike reactive models that focus on treating illness after it arises, Healthier SG is a preventive care initiative that aims to build long-term partnerships between residents and primary care providers.
This move is not just timely, it’s necessary. With Singapore’s rapidly ageing population and increasing prevalence of chronic diseases like diabetes and hypertension, the burden on the healthcare system is growing. Healthier SG seeks to ease this burden by empowering Singaporeans to manage their health early and effectively.
The Role of Family Doctors
A key feature of Healthier SG is the enrolment with a single family doctor or General Practitioner (GP). By doing this, patients benefit from continuity of care. Rather than seeing a different doctor at every visit, enrollees build a trusted relationship with one GP who understands their medical history, lifestyle, and personal preferences.
This approach improves early detection of diseases, ensures better chronic disease management, and provides consistent follow-ups and support. When patients have a go-to physician, there’s a higher likelihood they’ll stick to health plans and undergo necessary screenings or vaccinations on time.
Incentives for Participation
To encourage Healthier SG registration, the government has offered a series of incentives. These include free first health consultations, nationally recommended screenings and vaccinations, and waivers of MediSave requirements for chronic condition medication under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP).
For seniors aged 60 and above, this programme is especially beneficial. They gain access to more affordable care while also having the assurance of coordinated treatment across public health systems. Moreover, digital health tools through the Healthy 365 app help individuals track health goals, earn rewards, and stay engaged with their lifestyle changes.
Why You Shouldn’t Delay Enrolment
Delaying Healthier SG sign up means missing out on both short-term benefits like free screenings and long-term gains such as personalised, consistent care. Early enrolment allows you to establish a relationship with your doctor before health issues arise. This proactive step can lead to better outcomes down the road, particularly in the prevention or early management of conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, and high cholesterol.
Additionally, those already managing chronic illnesses will benefit from better medication adherence, lifestyle coaching, and streamlined care plans—all of which can lead to fewer hospital visits and lower healthcare costs over time.
What Enrolment Looks Like
The enrollment process is straightforward. You’ll receive an SMS invitation to enrol in the programme through the HealthHub or Healthy 365 app. After signing up, you select a participating clinic or doctor, attend your first consultation, and begin your health plan. From there, you and your doctor work together to monitor health markers, schedule screenings, and adjust lifestyle goals as needed.
You don’t need to be unwell to enrol. Healthier SG is about keeping healthy people well and guiding at-risk individuals toward better choices before complications arise. That’s why even younger adults, especially those with family histories of chronic diseases, are encouraged to take part.
It’s a Community Effort
At its heart, Healthier SG is about building a healthier nation, one resident at a time. While individuals benefit from tailored health guidance, the wider community reaps the rewards of a stronger, more sustainable healthcare system. With more people preventing illness instead of treating it, resources can be better allocated, and overall national well-being improves.
By making Healthier SG enrolment a priority, you’re not just looking after your own health—you’re contributing to a collective future where healthcare is more efficient, accessible, and effective for all.
Conclusion
Healthier SG marks a bold shift in the way healthcare is delivered in Singapore. It signals a move from hospital-centric to community-based care, and from treatment to prevention. With incentives in place, a seamless enrolment process, and clear long-term benefits, there’s every reason to get on board. Your health is your greatest asset—and now more than ever, there’s a system designed to help you protect it. So if you haven’t already done so, make your Healthier SG enrolment today.
