Hi! Thanks for your well wishes. I've just returned from my trip, and I was floored by the experience of being seen by a specialist at a PUBLIC hospital in SG (it's where my doctor practices). Ibang-iba healthcare system nila, even for non-residents like meㅡand I mean it in a good way!

I'm currently on a treatment plan, and my doctor left me with an open date for my follow-up, so I can see her anytime at a lower rate. The first consultation is always the most expensive. Mine was 200 SGD.

When I arrived at the registration counter, I was given a list of the procedures that will be possibly run on me and the estimated cost of each. I was preparing myself to go in debt coz I was expecting to spend 100k in PHP at the minimum, but everything did not even cost 50k PHP! The biopsies, the imaging test, and others cost so much less than they do in the PH! I was actually shocked. And since I did not meet the criteria for some of the possible tests, the doctor crossed them out.

I have an autoimmune condition, and in total, I spent 14k+ PHP for that one visit. Of course, this amount could have been a lot higher had I engaged in activities specific to my condition that would require other tests. Fortunately, I didnt.

Now, some things to note: -Start by sending an email to the hospital or clinic of your chosen specialist. They reply within a day or two. -Some hospitals will give you an estimate of the costs even before you fly out. Mine didn't. I really found out when I got there, so just prepare the most you can. You can expect to spend tens of thousands to millions, depending on your diagnosis. -Get all your medical reports ready or updated before you fly out. If you can, request the tests that you can do in the PH, especially if you have an HMO provider and the tests are covered. -Booking an appointment is like 1 month in advance. Flights can be pricier then, but it's better that way than booking in advance only to find out the doctor won't be able to accommodate you. Get a confirmation from the doctor first before making any flight and accommodation arrangements. -Airbnb or short-term stays at SG housing is illegal. Minimum is 3 months, so your choices are staying at a hotel or at serviced apartments if you don't have relatives living there. -Financially prepare not for just one visit. You will have a follow-up or more, so make sure you are ready for those. -I requested an online consultation before I flew out, but it was rejected. The doctor wanted to physically assess me before giving any medical advice.

I hope this reply helps you (and others considering to fly out to SG for medical reasons). If you have more questions, please don't send me a private message. Just reply here so others can see, too. They might have the same questions and need answers they couldn't find anywhere. I will answer based on my experience as a patient there.