SINGAPORE — The Republic’s healthcare system is one of the best and most affordable in the world, said Dr Chia Shi-Lu, who is part of the five-member People’s Action Party (PAP) team standing in Tanjong Pagar Group Representation Constituency (GRC).

“(In my experience) as a doctor, we’ve never had to turn away any Singaporean because he or she was unable to pay their medical bills,” said Dr Chia at the first PAP rally held last night (Sept 2).

“But, why is it that many of us are still concerned about healthcare costs?” he wondered, noting that healthcare remains one of the top concerns among residents and patients that he meets.

Dr Chia added that Singapore is one of the healthiest countries in the world, with one of the highest levels of life expectancy, and the Government has also done its part through subsidies to hawkers as an incentive to use healthier cooking oil, and organising health screenings and encouraging people to lead a healthy lifestyle through fitness corners.

Dr Chia also warned against falling for the promises of a free healthcare system from the Opposition.

Using the analogy of sales tactics, he cited how advertisers would use words such as “free gift” and “special discount” to lure unsuspecting buyers, and mask the clauses regarding the limited stocks available.

“There are many out there who want to bluff you, who come and say, ‘we can make healthcare better, for free, cheaper’. But, is it true?” said Dr Chia, who is a senior consultant at the Singapore General Hospital.

Dr Chia said that citizens living in welfare states, such as Britain, are still not free of worry, explaining: “For instance, if you have cancer, treatment may be free, but you might have to wait (until) next year or even the year after.”

“Things are not always what they seem,” he said, adding that it is important to keep Singapore’s healthcare system sustainable.