50 and above? You should know about subsidised colorectal screening in Singapore (from $0 to $5)

If you are aged 50 and above, it is helpful to understand how colorectal screening works in Singapore and how much it costs. Screening is commonly recommended as part of preventive healthcare, and many Singaporeans can receive subsidised colorectal screening using the Faecal Immunochemical Test (FIT) at CHAS clinics.

Colorectal cancer is one of the most commonly diagnosed cancers in Singapore. According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2023, it remains among the most frequently diagnosed cancers affecting both men and women in the country. Because early stages may not cause symptoms, screening from the age of 50 is commonly recommended.

One of the most widely used screening methods in Singapore is the Faecal Immunochemical Test, or FIT test.

The FIT test is a simple screening test that checks for tiny traces of blood in stool that may not be visible to the eye. These traces can sometimes indicate colorectal conditions that may require further medical assessment.

The test is commonly used as the first step in colorectal screening because it is simple, non-invasive and can be completed at home. After collecting a small stool sample using the kit provided, the sample is returned to the clinic and sent for laboratory testing. Your doctor will then advise you on the results and whether any further checks may be required.

In Singapore, the FIT test is commonly used for colorectal cancer screening because it is simple, affordable and widely available at CHAS clinics.

In Singapore, colorectal screening is recommended for Singapore citizens aged 50 and above, even if they feel well and do not have symptoms. Many colorectal conditions can develop without obvious symptoms in the early stages, which is why screening is encouraged as part of routine preventive care.

Some individuals may be advised by their doctor to start screening earlier if they have certain risk factors, such as a family history of colorectal cancer or other colorectal conditions.

Colorectal screening using the FIT test is subsidised at Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) clinics such across Singapore. The amount payable depends on your subsidy category.

Pioneer Generation and Public Assistance cardholders can receive the screening at no cost. Merdeka Generation cardholders and those with CHAS Blue or Orange cards typically pay about $2 per visit. CHAS Green cardholders and other eligible Singapore citizens generally pay about $5 per visit.

These subsidies are part of Singapore’s broader preventive health initiatives supported by the Health Promotion Board and the Healthier SG programme. Subsidised screening helps make colorectal screening accessible and affordable for many Singaporeans aged 50 and above.

FIT test kits are available at participating CHAS clinics across Singapore. At these clinics, a GP will explain how the test works and provide the FIT kit with instructions on how to complete the sample collection at home.

Once the sample is returned to the clinic, it will be sent for laboratory testing and the clinic will follow up with the results and advise if any further follow up is required.

HMI OneCare Clinics are CHAS and Healthier SG clinics. With 38 clinics across Singapore, patients aged 50 and above can visit a clinic near their home or workplace to speak to a GP and collect a FIT test kit.

Colorectal screening is one part of maintaining overall health after the age of 50. Some individuals may also choose to undergo broader health screening to assess other aspects of their health.

Comprehensive health screening programmes may include blood tests to assess cholesterol and diabetes risk, cardiovascular risk assessments and other age-appropriate screening tests. According to the Health Promotion Board, regular health screening helps identify certain conditions earlier so that appropriate follow up care can be arranged.

For individuals interested in more comprehensive screening, centres such as HMI Medical Centre offer structured health screening programmes where doctors can advise on suitable tests based on age, medical history and individual health needs.

How much does a FIT test cost in Singapore?

The FIT test is subsidised at CHAS clinics for eligible Singapore citizens aged 50 and above. Pioneer Generation and Public Assistance cardholders may receive the test at no cost. Merdeka Generation cardholders and those with CHAS Blue or Orange cards typically pay about $2 per visit. CHAS Green cardholders and other eligible Singapore citizens generally pay about $5 per visit.

Where can I get a FIT test in Singapore?

FIT test kits are available at participating CHAS clinics across Singapore. A clinic staff or GP will explain how the test works and provide the kit with instructions for collecting a stool sample at home. HMI OneCare Clinics are CHAS and Healthier SG clinics with 38 locations islandwide where eligible patients can collect a FIT test kit.

How often should colorectal screening be done?

Doctors commonly recommend colorectal screening from age 50 onwards. The FIT test is often done once a year, although the appropriate screening interval may vary depending on your health history and your doctor’s advice.

What happens if a FIT test result is abnormal?

If a FIT test result requires further evaluation, your doctor may recommend additional investigations such as a colonoscopy. These procedures are typically performed by specialist doctors at hospitals or medical centres such as HMI Medical Centre, depending on the patient’s needs and referral.