DOING WHAT’S BEST FOR YOU
So, how does one balance healthcare needs and rising costs?
Saving on medication, for example, is pragmatic but it’s a fine line, said medical experts. Most healthcare professionals say the same thing: Always do what is best for your health.
“The actual cost difference between seeing a GP and a specialist depends on what the individual patient is consulting for, the tests and treatment required,” said Dr Huang. “In general, one may expect to pay at least 50 per cent more when seeing a specialist. But this is necessary when the requisite treatment is not available at the GP.”
She added that some patients baulk at being referred to a specialist, despite having conditions that require specialist attention. “In those situations, we will refer patients to seek specialist attention at a public healthcare institution where cost may be less prohibitive for them.”
Dr Ng echoes this. “In such cases, for their health and well-being, I would share more cost-efficient alternatives to the best of my knowledge, like the public healthcare system or university training clinics. For these patients, it is better to seek specialist help than receive help that is not effective, or none at all.”
*Name has been changed.