How to Choose the Right Maternity Hospital in Singapore (Private vs Public)

Choosing the right maternity hospital in Singapore is one of the most important decisions expectant parents will make. The quality of care, comfort, budget, and the type of delivery experience you want all play vital roles.

Singapore offers a wide selection of top-quality public and private maternity hospitals, each catering to different needs and budgets.

This guide will help you understand the major differences between private and public maternity care in Singapore so you can choose the best option for your delivery in 2025.

Understanding the Singapore Healthcare System for Maternity

Singapore’s dual healthcare system is comprised of public hospitals (subsidised by the government) and private hospitals (fully paid by the patient or through insurance). Both sectors offer excellent maternity care, but the experience, cost, and level of customization can vary significantly.

Top Public Maternity Hospitals in Singapore

• KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital (KKH)
• National University Hospital (NUH)
• Singapore General Hospital (SGH)
• Sengkang General Hospital
• Ng Teng Fong General Hospital

These public hospitals are known for their medical excellence, especially in handling high-risk pregnancies, complications, and neonatal care. They are equipped with advanced NICU (Neonatal Intensive Care Unit) services and have multi-disciplinary teams on standby 24/7.

Top Private Maternity Hospitals in Singapore

• Mount Elizabeth Hospital (Orchard and Novena)
• Gleneagles Hospital
• Thomson Medical Centre
• Parkway East Hospital
• Raffles Hospital

Private hospitals in Singapore are known for providing a more luxurious and personalised maternity experience. You get to choose your obstetrician, enjoy better room amenities, and experience less waiting time.

Comparing Public vs Private Maternity Hospitals

1. Cost and Affordability

• Public Hospitals (subsidised):
  • Natural birth: SGD 1,200 to SGD 3,500
  • Caesarean section: SGD 3,500 to SGD 6,000
• Private Hospitals:
  • Natural birth: SGD 7,000 to SGD 14,000
  • Caesarean section: SGD 12,000 to SGD 20,000

Subsidies under the MediSave and MediShield Life schemes are available for Singapore citizens and PRs using public hospitals. Private hospital births are more expensive and usually require insurance or out-of-pocket payment.

2. Continuity of Care and Choice of Doctor

• In private hospitals, you can choose a specific obstetrician to oversee your pregnancy and deliver your baby. This provides continuity and builds trust.
• In public hospitals, especially if you’re on a subsidised route, you may be seen by different doctors and the delivery may be performed by whoever is on duty.

3. Waiting Time and Appointment Scheduling

• Private hospitals generally offer shorter wait times, flexible appointment slots, and longer consultations.
• Public hospitals can have long queues and waiting times, especially at subsidised clinics. This can be a disadvantage if you need quick access or consistent follow-up.

4. Facilities and Room Options

• Private hospitals provide premium suites, private bathrooms, companion beds for partners, and even confinement food services. The environment is calm, quiet, and designed for comfort.
• Public hospitals offer more basic ward options, including shared rooms. Private room upgrades are available but still less luxurious than those in private hospitals.

5. Birth Experience and Customisation

• Private hospitals often allow you to personalise your birth plan. Options like water birth, music, dimmed lighting, aromatherapy, and midwife-led deliveries are sometimes available.
• Public hospitals follow standardised procedures and protocols. Customisation is limited, though safe delivery is always prioritised.

6. Postnatal Care and Support

• Private hospitals usually include lactation consultants, postnatal physiotherapy, nutritionists, and baby care classes as part of their maternity packages.
• Public hospitals may offer basic postnatal guidance and services, but extensive follow-ups or wellness support may require separate appointments or external providers.

7. Handling High-Risk Pregnancies

• Public hospitals like KKH and NUH are the best equipped for high-risk pregnancies. They have specialised departments, experienced consultants, and round-the-clock emergency facilities.
• Private hospitals can manage mild to moderate complications but may transfer patients to public hospitals for complex medical emergencies or preterm births.

8. Language and Cultural Considerations

• Private hospitals are very expat-friendly, with multilingual staff and translators available. Many cater to international patients with concierge services.
• Public hospitals may be less flexible in terms of cultural accommodations, but English is widely spoken by medical professionals.

Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Maternity Hospital

• Your budget and insurance coverage
• Your risk profile (low-risk vs high-risk pregnancy)
• Your preference for private or shared rooms
• The importance of a customised birth plan
• Your desire for consistent care from a single doctor
• Proximity of the hospital to your residence
• Whether you plan to use Medisave or insurance coverage

Planning Ahead: Registration, Hospital Tours, and Booking

• Register early in your second trimester to secure your preferred hospital and obstetrician
• Take advantage of hospital tours to explore maternity suites, delivery rooms, and nursery facilities
• Compare maternity packages and request detailed cost breakdowns
• Understand the terms and inclusions of maternity insurance or delivery riders if you have private coverage

Pros and Cons Summary

Private Hospitals:

• Pros: Personalised care, private rooms, faster service, custom birth plans, international-friendly
• Cons: Higher cost, limited NICU for emergencies

Public Hospitals:

• Pros: Affordable with subsidies, expert handling of complications, high safety standards
• Cons: Less personalised care, longer waiting times, limited comfort features

Conclusion: Making the Right Decision for Your Birth Journey

Choosing between a public or private maternity hospital in Singapore depends on your individual needs, medical condition, and financial capability. If luxury, privacy, and a tailored birth experience are important to you, and cost is not a constraint, private hospitals offer an excellent choice. On the other hand, if you’re looking for highly reliable medical care at an affordable price, and are okay with fewer frills, public hospitals provide outstanding value.

Consult your obstetrician early, evaluate hospital options based on your priorities, and prepare well in advance for the delivery. No matter where you deliver, Singapore’s maternity care system ensures you and your baby are in safe and capable hands.