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Heart disease is becoming more prevalent with the various health and lifestyle changes in the body. Singapore is one of the best countries to consider for a trained and certified cardiologist.
Cardiologists in Singapore are found in both private and public hospitals, with each having different costs, depending on the treatment. Cardiologists aim to diagnose and treat heart conditions and disorders. Severe cases are referred to cardiac surgeons, who consider the patient and check whether they are eligible for surgery.
But what causes heart disease?
Various factors cause heart diseases across people of all ages:
- Lack of physical exercise
Inactivity can lead to heart disease as the body is not operational in a way that aids a healthy heart. A dormant lifestyle makes the arteries clog up with fat deposits which block the heart vessels.
- Smoking
Smoking damages the arteries and leads to heart blockages, in addition it raised both cholesterol and blood pressure
- High cholesterol
High cholesterol is part genetic and part lifestyle. High levels of LDL cholesterol enter the artery walls and lead to blockages, angina, heart attacks and strokes.
- High blood pressure
High blood pressure is mainly a lifestyle disease. It damages the arteries and leads to heart attack and stroke.
Costs of a cardiologist in Singapore
Patients seeking cardiologists in Singapore need to book appointments before reaching the country. Private hospitals do not require appointments to be booked months in advance. Public hospitals have a long waiting time for consultations, with some requiring the patient to wait upto six weeks to get a slot booked for consultation.
Cardiologists in private clinics cost roughly $200 to $500 for the first consultation. This is followed up by medications and subsequent consultations which can make the costs from $800 to $1200. Public hospitals can cost $250 to $400 depending on the qualification of the cardiologist.
Cardiology treatment in Singapore offers residents the option of subsidized care. The patient should however be a citizen of Singapore or a permanent resident, with a referral letter from a health officer.
What to consider when looking for a cardiologist in Singapore
The numerous cardiologists in Singapore may make foreigners and residents alike become overwhelmed by the choice they have to make. There are a few pointers to consider when looking for a cardiologist in Singapore:
- Fully equipped clinic
When choosing the right cardiologist, you would want one with a fully equipped clinic, as they will be able to diagnose and treat the right ailment and offer specialized services. These clinics can offer specialized and comprehensive assessments for all cardiac conditions. A fully equipped clinic will consider the patient’s history for previous cardiac-related illnesses, and assist the cardiologist in deriving possible treatments and management options.
- Cardiologist credentials
The cardiologists in Singapore undergo extensive training to ensure they are the best in their craft. As a result, cardiologists finish medical school and gain extensive experience that is widely sought after worldwide. Before booking a consultation with your cardiologist of choice, it is best to check on their certification levels. Checking their patient success rates is also vital in ensuring that you access the best cardiologist.
- Location
Checking the location of the clinic is important. A clinic that is easily accessible and available for walk-ins or emergencies will be a much viable option for both foreigners and residents.
- Convenience
Different cardiologists have their unique way of running their clinics. Some are available seven days a week and can be requested for emergency services on call, while others require prior booking and consultation. Patients who require diagnostic testing and screening are also given their results on the same day. It is important to consider these aspects before booking a specific cardiologist. Other cardiologists also offer same-day bookings which are extremely convenient for specialized and referral cases.
- Adoption of the latest technology
The clinic needs to have the latest technology in place, with the cardiologist being able to incorporate modern technology into treatments. By using the latest technology advancements, the right treatment options are identified, with minimal turnaround time and maximum efficiency. The age of tele-consultation has enabled the influence of technology to influence the interaction between doctor and patient. Cardiologists are also embracing holistic cardiology care and services which combine the influence of modern medicine and holistic influences to give patients maximum health care. Clinics that engage with the patients before their arrival promise efficiency and a personalized healthcare system.
- Personalized medical care
When seeking the right cardiologist, it is best to get one who is passionate about their patients and aims to give their patients the best personalized care available. A cardiologist who seeks to understand the patient’s needs and listen to their ailments will be in a better position to understand the minute details that define their condition. In doing so, the cardiologist can advise the patient on the right treatment plan according to their needs. The medical staff should also be friendly and receptive to the patient’s concerns and queries. This in turn assists the patient to open up and gain confidence, making them more receptive to treatment.
- Payment plans
It is advisable to consider the payment plans for the cardiology treatment before booking an appointment. Foreigners are advised to call in advance and enquire whether their insurance plans will cover their treatment before booking an appointment and traveling to Singapore. This prevents disappointment and helps the patient prepare before their treatment. Residents of Singapore can also check their eligibility for insurance cover, to see the treatment areas that are covered.
