Screen for Life (SFL) in Singapore: What You Need to Know

Screen for Life (SFL) is a national health screening programme in Singapore that encourages residents to go for regular health screening to detect chronic diseases and cancers early.

Many patients are unsure:

• What SFL covers

• Who is eligible

• How much it costs

• Whether screening is really necessary if they “feel well”

  
  

At Legacy Medical Practice, we support patients in understanding and accessing Screen for Life screening in a clear and practical way.

What Is Screen for Life (SFL)?

• Screen for Life is a Ministry of Health (MOH) programme that provides subsidised health screening for eligible Singaporeans and Permanent Residents.

  
  

The goal is to:

• Detect conditions early

• Reduce complications

• Support long-term health and quality of life

Many chronic diseases are silent in the early stages, which is why screening is important even when you feel healthy.

Who Is Eligible for Screen for Life?

You may be eligible for SFL if you are:

• A Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident

• Within the recommended age group for specific screenings

  
  

Eligibility and subsidies depend on:

• Age

• Gender

• CHAS status

  
  

Your GP clinic can advise which tests apply to you.

What Does Screen for Life Cover?

Depending on your age and gender, SFL may include screening for:

1.❤️ Chronic Diseases

• Diabetes

• High blood pressure

• High cholesterol

These conditions often have no symptoms initially but can lead to heart disease, stroke, and kidney problems if untreated.

2.🎗️ Cancer Screening

• Breast cancer (mammogram)

• Cervical cancer (Pap smear / HPV testing)

• Colorectal cancer (FIT test)

  
  

Early detection significantly improves treatment outcomes.

How Often Should You Be Screened?

General recommendations include:

• Chronic disease screening: every 3 years (or more frequently if advised)

• Cervical cancer screening: based on age and previous results

• Breast cancer screening: based on age group

• Colorectal cancer screening: typically from age 50 onwards

  
  

Your GP will tailor recommendations based on your personal and family history.

How Much Does Screen for Life Cost?

Under Screen for Life:

• Eligible screenings are heavily subsidised

• Some screenings may be free (HSG) or low-cost for CHAS cardholders

• Additional tests (if needed) may incur separate charges

  
  

Your clinic can explain costs clearly before proceeding.

What Happens After Screening?

After screening:

• Results are reviewed by your GP

• Normal results are explained and documented

• Abnormal or borderline results are followed up appropriately

  
  

Screening does not end at testing — proper interpretation and follow-up are key.

Why Screening Matters Even If You Feel Well?

Many patients delay screening because they feel healthy.

However:

• Early disease often has no symptoms

• Detecting conditions early allows simpler treatment

• Preventive care reduces long-term complications

  
  

Screening is about staying well — not waiting to fall sick.

How Legacy Medical Practice Can Help?

At Legacy Medical Practice, we provide:

• Screen for Life–eligible health screening

• Clear explanation of results

• Personalised follow-up plans

Our approach is focused on prevention, clarity, and continuity of care.

📍 Same-day appointments available

📞 Speak to our team to check your eligibility