Singapore’s international medical community boasts a diverse and vibrant group of doctors with expertise and experience from around the world, expanding the range of medical services and improving patient care. In this article, we explore what it means to be an international doctor in Singapore and the benefits they bring to the healthcare system.
The perks of becoming an international doctor in Singapore are numerous. The country has become one of the most desirable destinations for doctors globally, with its excellent healthcare infrastructure, a highly-skilled workforce, vibrant culture, high quality of life, and modern lifestyle. International doctors have access to some of the best medical facilities and tools available today, including world-class public hospitals with advanced technology, modernized laboratories, and state-of-the-art equipment that make treatment more efficient, accurate, and effective. Singapore also boasts private hospitals that offer specialized services such as fertility treatments or plastic surgery which may not be available elsewhere in the region or even globally. Medical students can benefit from a wide range of resources such as online libraries or seminars organized by experienced professionals who share their knowledge with younger generations.
International doctors also have access to some of Asia’s leading tertiary healthcare institutions, including National University Hospital (NUH), Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH), and Changi General Hospital (CGH).
Singapore offers various medical careers ranging from medical doctors to nurses, physiotherapists to pharmacists. Medical doctors (MDs) are highly trained professionals who diagnose illnesses and prescribe treatments. They can be general practitioners or specialize in specific fields such as cardiology, endocrinology, neurology, or surgery. Nurses provide direct patient care under the supervision of MDs. They monitor patients’ vital signs, administer medications, perform diagnostic tests, and provide emotional support to patients and their families. Physiotherapists assist people with physical injuries or disabilities through rehabilitative treatment plans that involve a wide range of exercises and therapies.
To become an international doctor in Singapore, several requirements must be met before licensure can be granted. Applicants must have passed the Medical Council of Singapore (MCS) Examination, which consists of four parts general medicine, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and family medicine. They must also demonstrate proficient knowledge in English by taking an approved English language proficiency test such as IELTS or TOEFL. Applicants must obtain two letters of recommendation from current or former employers or supervisors attesting to their professional experience and competency as a doctor. The letters should include information about their clinical practice, research activities, and teaching experience if applicable.
Singapore is one of the most expensive cities in the world, making it a relatively expensive place to live and work. However, doctors with specialized skills and qualifications can make a good living, with salaries ranging from $68K-130K per year for specialists and $48K-75K per year for general practitioners, according to SalaryExplorer’s 2020 survey on doctor salaries in Singapore. Despite these costs, the benefits of becoming an international doctor in Singapore make it a tantalizing prospect for medical students worldwide.
Another factor that can impact the cost of living and working as a doctor in Singapore is the type of work arrangement. Some doctors may choose to work in public hospitals or clinics which offer competitive salaries and benefits, while others may choose to work in private practice where they have greater autonomy and may earn more money but also have higher overhead costs.
Conclusion
Becoming an international doctor in Singapore can be a rewarding and exciting opportunity for medical professionals looking to expand their horizons and experience new cultures. With world-class medical facilities, a supportive healthcare system, and a vibrant and dynamic culture, Singapore offers an excellent environment for international doctors to practice medicine and make a difference in the lives of patients.
Whether you are a medical doctor, nurse, or physiotherapist, there are numerous opportunities available in Singapore’s healthcare system. However, it is important to be aware of the requirements for licensure and the cost of living and working in Singapore before deciding to relocate.
Overall, Singapore is a fantastic destination for international doctors, offering a high standard of living, excellent medical facilities, and a diverse and vibrant culture.
