Financial Assistance Programmes for Fertility Treatments in Singapore

Fertility treatments offer a meaningful path for those hoping to grow their families, but the costs involved can feel overwhelming. In Singapore, procedures such as in vitro fertilisation (IVF), fertility medications, and related treatments can add up significantly. It is natural to feel uncertain about how to manage these expenses.

Fortunately, there are several financial assistance programmes available to help ease this burden. Understanding what is available, from government subsidies to fertility loans, can help you approach your fertility journey with greater confidence and clarity.

What are the costs of fertility treatments in Singapore?

Fertility treatment costs in Singapore depend on the type of procedure and whether you choose a public or private clinic.

Here’s a breakdown of typical costs:

Public hospitals tend to be more affordable, while private clinics can offer more flexible scheduling and a more personalised experience. Your doctor can guide you in choosing the option for your needs and circumstances.

Interested in learning more about your fertility treatment options? with Thomson Medical to discover the option that best suits your needs.

Financial assistance options for fertility treatments

Singapore offers various financial assistance programmes to help you finance your fertility treatments, including government subsidies, MediSave, insurance, and loans.

Government subsidies and MediSave

The Singapore Ministry of Health (MOH) co-funds Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART) procedures such as IVF at public hospitals. If you are eligible, the government can cover up to 75% of your treatment costs.

For Singapore Citizen couples, the co-funding support covers:

• Fresh ART/IVF cycles up to SGD 7,700 per cycle

• Frozen ART/IVF cycles up to SGD 2,200 per cycle

• IUI cycles up to SGD 1,000 per cycle, for a maximum of 3 cycles

• Maximum of 3 fresh and 3 frozen ART cycles covered

Note: Co-funding is available for up to 2 out of the 6 total co-funded cycles, as long as you have previously attempted AR or IUI treatment before age 40.

You can also use your MediSave account to help pay for fertility treatment. MediSave is a personal savings account within your CPF, set aside for healthcare costs.

The amount you can withdraw depends on the cycle:

• First cycle up to SGD 6,000

• Second cycle up to SGD 5,000

• Third cycle and beyond up to SGD 4,000

• Lifetime withdrawal limit of SGD 15,000 per patient

You or your spouse can use either MediSave account – or both – to cover these costs. With government co-funding, many couples find that their expenses are quite manageable, especially at a public hospital.

Private insurance and fertility loans

Most standard private insurance plans in Singapore do not cover fertility treatments directly. That said, some plans do offer partial coverage through supplementary maternity riders. You should check your existing policy or speak to your insurer to see what is included.

If you need extra support, fertility-specific loans are available from some financial institutions. Many clinics also offer flexible payment plans so you can spread the cost over time.

Employer benefits

More companies in Singapore are beginning to include fertility support as part of their staff wellness programmes. This may cover part of the costs for IVF or egg freezing, helping to ease some of the financial burden.

Take the time to check your eligibility, understand withdrawal limits, review your policy coverage, and explore repayment options. Knowing your options helps you make confident choices and focus on your fertility journey with less stress.

How to apply for financial assistance programmes for fertility treatments

While the financial side of fertility treatment can feel complex, taking it one step at a time helps you make informed choices and access the support you need.

These steps can make things smoother:

1. Research available options:

   • Look into government subsidies like the Government Co-Funding for ART treatments, MediSave withdrawals, insurance coverage, and payment plans at your chosen clinic.

2. Gather the necessary documentation:

   • Fertility clinics will require you to submit various documents, such as medical records, financial statements, and identification, to process subsidies and MediSave withdrawals.

3. Work with your clinic:

   • Most fertility clinics in Singapore can assist patients with the financial aspects of treatment.

   • Clinics will often help guide you through the process of applying for subsidies, using MediSave, or arranging loans.

4. Follow-up regularly:

   • Keep track of deadlines and check the status of your applications to ensure nothing is missed. Staying organised can help reduce stress and avoid delays.

Taking time to explore your financing options can meaningfully reduce the cost of your fertility journey. Government subsidies, MediSave withdrawals, private insurance coverage, and fertility loans are all worth looking into. With the right support in place, you can focus less on finances and more on your path to parenthood.

Fertility treatments can be costly, but support is available. Request an appointment with Thomson Medical to learn how to maximise your financial assistance and ensure that your treatment journey is as smooth as possible.

FAQ

Does the government co-funding cover private clinics?

No, the government co-funding is available only for treatment at Singapore public hospitals, namely, NUH, SGH, and KKH.

Does my fertility clinic need to be accredited to receive MediSave or co-funding?

Yes, only approved fertility clinics can offer co-funding and MediSave support.

How can I do IVF if I can’t afford it?

In Singapore, combine government co-funding, MediSave, and cash to make IVF more affordable. If you are eligible and choose a public hospital, you can receive up to a 75% subsidy, which can reduce your overall cost.

Are fertility tests subsidised in Singapore?

Yes, some fertility tests and related procedures may be subsidised if they are medically necessary and are done at public healthcare institutions.

Do you need to apply separately for co-funding?

You usually do not need to apply separately. If you meet the eligibility criteria, the co-funding will be applied automatically when you receive treatment at a public hospital.

Can I use both mine and my spouse’s MediSave?

Yes, you can use MediSave from your account, your spouse’s account, or both, as long as you stay within the withdrawal limits.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered financial advice. For more information, request a consultation with our fertility specialists at Thomson Fertility Singapore for personalised recommendations and tailored advice.