Basic criteria

Financial assistance is only available to Singaporeans and Singapore Permanent Residents subject to stipulated guidelines set by National Cancer Centre and the Ministry of Health. Change of patient status (downgrading to a lower status) is for Singaporeans, Permanent Residents of Singapore and persons holding a valid Work Permit. There are no financial assistance nor change of status schemes for foreigners.

Financial Assessment

In considering financial assistance, all of the patient's family members' income, including married and unmarried children will be taken into consideration. As all financial assistance schemes are subject to audit, the department needs to document proof of family income and may require, where appropriate, supportive documentary proof of family finances to support each application and renewal for financial assistance. You are advised to bring any documentary proof of family particulars and household income.

There are guidelines in the granting of financial assistance and change of patient status (downgrading). These guidelines are not available to the general public for financial assessment requires professional assessment of each application. The quantum of assistance or approval for a change of patient status (downgrading) is subject to the frequency of hospital visits, average cost of hospital charges and the shortfall of income in meeting expenses. Successful applicants: (a) must maintain their subsidised status at both inpatient and outpatient visits for the treatments covered and for future financial reviews; (b) named referrals (choice of doctors) will no longer be applicable since the assignment of doctors to subsidised patients is based on assessed medical needs and deployment of doctors by the hospital and under the Ministry of Health's Guidelines.

You are advised to apply for financial assistance should you:
- have already met the basic criteria for financial assistance;
- have consulted your doctor on the extent and cost of treatment required; and
- feel that you do not have sufficient financial resources to pay for your medical expenses.

Your doctor will arrange for you to make an appointment to see our Medical Social Worker at the earliest available time. You may also enquire with our Financial & Social Information Hotline at Tel: 64368126 during office hours.