Medical Loans in Singapore

Head of Research
|
Updated 05 Apr 2026

Fact-checked

Glossary

Disclosure

Useful Resources

Head of Research
Updated 05 Apr 2026
|

Fact-checked

There is no specific loan product called a "medical loan" in Singapore, the term refers to personal loans used to pay for healthcare expenses such as hospital bills, surgery costs, dental work, fertility treatments or long term care. These are unsecured loans offered by major banks, digital banks and licensed moneylenders regulated by the Ministry of Law.

Before borrowing, patients should first exhaust government subsidies and schemes such as MediSave, MediShield Life, Medifund, and CHAS which significantly reduce out-of pocket costs for eligible Singaporeans. This page explains how to finance medical expenses, what government support is available, when a loan makes sense and how to compare options if borrowing becomes necessary.
Medical loan facts below:
Medical loan facts

What Is a Medical Loan?

A medical loan is simply a personal loan used to pay for healthcare related expenses such as hospital bills, surgery, specialist treatments, dental procedures, fertility treatments or medical equipment. Despite marketing names, medical loans are identical to standard personal loans in terms of eligibility, rates and terms. The funds are disbursed directly to the borrower's bank account and can be used for any medical related purpose.

  • Before taking a loan, exhaust all available options:
  • MediSave > Use CPF medical savings for approved treatments
  • MediShield Life / Integrated Shield Plans > Insurance coverage for hospitalisation
  • Medifund > Safety net for those who cannot afford bills after subsidies
  • Hospital payment plans > Many hospitals offer 0% instalment plans
  • CHAS subsidies > For outpatient care at GP clinics
  • warning Only take a personal loan if these options are either insufficient or unavailable.
  • Singapore Citizen or Permanent Resident (some banks accept foreigners with Employment Pass)
  • Minimum age 21 years (maximum 60 to 65 years)
  • Minimum annual income of $20,000 to $30,000 depending on lender
  • Employed (salaried, self-employed or commission-based)
  • warning Total unsecured debt must not exceed 12x monthly income
  • warning Approval depends on credit score and existing debt obligations

For existing bank customers applying online via Singpass MyInfo, approval can be instant and funds disbursed within minutes to hours. Digital banks like Trust Bank and GXS offer approval in as fast as 60 seconds. Licensed moneylenders can disburse in minutes for urgent medical needs. For planned procedures, apply 1 to 2 weeks in advance to compare options.

*Applying with ROSHI will not impact your credit score

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Glossary

Useful Resources

$1,000

$200,000

3 Months

72 Months

Total Cashback
10
Your Monthly Payment

337

* For a loan amount of $20,000, APR of 6.95%, 5 year, read more

Quick Medical Loan Facts

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Typical
Rates

Most borrowers pay between 5% to 12% EIR depending on credit score. Advertised rates of 1% to 3% are best case scenarios. Licensed moneylenders charge up to 4% per month.

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Loan
Amount

Borrow up to 4 times monthly income (income below $120k) or 6 to 10 times monthly income (income $120k+). Maximum typically capped at $200,000.

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Use MediSave First

MediSave covers many hospital treatments, surgeries and approved outpatient procedures. Check CPF withdrawal limits before borrowing.

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Fast
Approval

Existing bank customers can get instant approval. Digital banks approve in 60 seconds. Moneylenders disburse in minutes for emergencies.

Government Schemes to Reduce Medical Costs

Singapore's healthcare financing system is designed to minimise
out-of-pocket expenses. Use these before taking a loan.
What It Covers Who Qualifies Key Details
MediSaveHospitalisation, day surgery, approved outpatient treatmentsAll CPF membersUse your own or immediate family members' MediSave. Withdrawal limits apply per procedure.
MediShield LifeLarge hospital bills, costly outpatient treatmentsAll SC/PR (compulsory)Basic coverage with lifetime protection. Premiums payable via MediSave. Covers up to B2/C ward.
Integrated Shield PlansPrivate hospital, A/B1 ward, higher coverageOptional top up to MediShield LifeHigher premiums but broader coverage. Riders cover co-payment and deductibles.
MedifundSubsidised bills that remain unaffordableSC who cannot pay after subsidiesSafety net of last resort. Apply through hospital medical social worker.
CHASOutpatient care at GP/dental clinicsSC households based on incomeBlue/Orange/Green tiers with different subsidy levels.
Pioneer/Merdeka GenerationAdditional subsidies for seniorsBorn 1949 or earlier (PG) / 1950 to 1959 (MG)Higher MediSave top-ups, outpatient subsidies, MediShield Life premium subsidies.
ElderShield / CareShield LifeSevere disability payoutsSC/PR (CareShield Life compulsory from 2020)Monthly cash payouts if unable to perform daily activities.
How to check what you're Eligible for:
  • arrow-rightLog in to CPF website to check MediSave balance and withdrawal limits
  • arrow-rightContact your Integrated Shield Plan insurer for coverage details
  • arrow-rightSpeak to hospital medical social worker about Medifund eligibility
  • arrow-rightCheck CHAS eligibility at chas.sg
Our Expert says

Exhaust Government Support Before Borrowing

Singapore has one of the most comprehensive healthcare financing systems in the world but many patients don't fully utilise available support. Before taking a loan, check MediSave withdrawal limits for your procedure, file insurance claims through MediShield Life or your Integrated Shield Plan, apply for Medifund if bills remain unaffordable and ask the hospital about interest free instalment plans.

Many patients borrow unnecessarily because they don't realise how much government support is available. A loan should be the last resort not the first response to a medical bill. Quote Icon

Trinh Thanh
Trinh Thanh
Head of Research
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Medical Loan Eligibility

Medical Loan Eligibility Requirements
Basic Requirements:
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Business registered with ACRA (sole proprietorship, partnership, LLP, or Pte Ltd)
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Operating in Singapore for minimum 6 to 24 months
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Minimum annual revenue of $100,000 to $300,000
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At least 30% local shareholding (SC/PR) for government schemes
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Satisfactory credit profile for business and guarantors
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Positive cash flow and ability to service loan repayments
Documents Required:
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NRIC (front and back)
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Latest 3 months payslips OR 12 months CPF contribution history
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Latest Notice of Assessment (NOA) from IRAS
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Bank statements (for some lenders)
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Proof of address (for non-bank customers)
For Self-Employed:
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Latest 2 years Notice of Assessment
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Business registration documents
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Bank statements showing income
For Foreigners:
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Valid Employment Pass or S Pass
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Minimum annual income of $40,000 to $60,000
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Proof of local residence
For Urgent Medical Emergencies:
Licensed moneylenders can approve with fewer documents
Some digital banks offer instant approval with Singpass
Family members can apply on behalf if patient is incapacitated

Tips Before Borrowing for Medical Bills

Tips Before Taking a Medical Loan
Check MediSave withdrawal limits first

Log in to CPF to see how much can be withdrawn for your specific procedure. Many surgeries and treatments have approved MediSave claim amounts that significantly reduce out of pocket costs.

File insurance claims before borrowing

Submit claims to MediShield Life and your Integrated Shield Plan. Wait for the claim outcome to know your actual out-of-pocket amount before deciding how much to borrow.

Ask about Medifund

If you're a Singapore Citizen and cannot afford remaining bills after MediSave and insurance, speak to the hospital's medical social worker about Medifund assistance.

Request hospital payment plans

Most hospitals offer 0% interest instalment plans. This is almost always cheaper than a loan.

Compare EIR, not advertised rates

The Effective Interest Rate (EIR) reflects the true cost of borrowing. A lower advertised rate with high fees may cost more than a higher rate with no fees.

Borrow only what's needed

Calculate the gap between total bill and what MediSave/insurance covers. Borrow only this amount not the maximum available.

Alternatives to Medical Loans

Other Ways to Finance Medical Bills
A loan isn't the only option, consider these alternatives first:
MediSave Withdrawal

The most cost-effective option for eligible procedures. MediSave can be used for hospitalisation, day surgery and approved outpatient treatments. You can also use immediate family members' MediSave (spouse, children, parents, grandparents).

MediShield Life + Integrated Shield Plan Claims

File insurance claims for hospitalisation and eligible treatments. Wait for claim outcome before deciding to borrow. Riders can cover deductibles and co-payments.

Medifund Application

For Singapore Citizens who cannot afford bills after MediSave and insurance, Medifund provides assistance as a safety net of last resort. Apply through the hospital's medical social worker.

Hospital 0% Instalment Plans

Most hospitals offer interest-free payment plans for 6 to 24 months. This is cheaper than any loan and doesn't affect your credit score.

Credit Card Instalment Plans

Some banks offer 0% instalment plans on credit cards for hospital bills. Check if your card issuer has partnerships with the hospital.

Family Support

Discuss with family members who may be able to help especially for one time large expenses. Sharing the burden reduces individual financial strain.

CALCULATE YOUR MEDICAL LOAN REPAYMENTS

See Exactly What You'll Pay
Before You Apply

Loan Amount
34

$1,000

$10,000

Loan Tenure
3

1 Months

24 Months

Monthly Interest
Your Monthly repayment will be
$9,700.88
Total Cashback

$0.00

Total Interest

$0

Total Repayment

$0

Launch Your Application
*No impact on credit score

How Much Do Medical Procedures Cost in Singapore?

Understanding typical costs helps determine if borrowing is necessary.
Amount Public Hospital (Subsidised) Public Hospital (Private) Private Hospital
Normal Delivery$1,500 to $3,000$4,000 to $6,000$8,000 to $15,000
C-Section Delivery$3,000 to $5,000$7,000 to $10,000$15,000 to $25,000
Appendix Removal$2,000 to $4,000$5,000 to $8,000$10,000 to $18,000
Knee Replacement$8,000 to $12,000$15,000 to $22,000$30,000 to $50,000
Heart Bypass$20,000 to $35,000$40,000 to $60,000$80,000 to $150,000
Cataract Surgery (per eye)$1,500 to $2,500$3,000 to $4,500$5,000 to $8,000
Cancer Treatment (chemo cycle)$500 to $2,000$2,000 to $5,000$5,000 to $10,000
IVF Cycle$8,000 to $12,000$15,000 to $25,000
Dental Implant (per tooth)$3,000 to $6,000
Invisalign / Braces$5,000 to $10,000
Key Cost Drivers
Public hospital subsidised rates require means testing and are for SC/PR
MediSave and MediShield Life can cover significant portions of eligible procedures
Costs vary widely based on surgeon, hospital, ward class and complications
Always request a cost estimate before admission

Where to Get a Medical Loan in Singapore?

Three main financing providers each with different rates, limits and approval speeds.
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Traditional Banks
Interest Rate: Interest Rate: 6% to 14%
Banks like DBS, OCBC, UOB, Standard Chartered, HSBC, CIMB and Maybank offer personal loans for medical expenses. Rates depend on credit score, loan amount and tenure.. Minimum annual income of $20,000 to $30,000 required. Existing customers can get instant approval via Singpass MyInfo.
Best for:
Non urgent procedures where you have time to compare rates and want the lowest interest cost.
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Digital Banks
Interest Rate: Interest Rate: 5% to 15%
GXS FlexiLoan, Trust Bank Instant Loan and MariBank offer fully digital applications with approval in as fast as 60 seconds. No processing fees and no branch visits required everything is done via mobile app. Rates are competitive but depend on individual credit profiles.
Best for:
Quick access to funds with a fully digital experience, especially for urgent but non emergency needs.
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Licensed Moneylenders
Interest Rate: Interest Rate: 23% to 48% p.a.
For borrowers who don't meet bank eligibility due to lower income, poor credit score, foreigners or emergency situations these lenders regulated by the Ministry of Law offer an alternative to banks. Licensed moneylenders provide loans with significantly higher rates but flexible approval criteria and fastest access to funds.
Best for:
Emergencies when banks are not an option or for borrowers who don't qualify for bank loans.

Hospital Instalment Plans (A Better Alternative)

Many hospitals offer 0% interest payment plans hence always ask before taking a loan.
Most public and private hospitals in Singapore offer interest-free instalment plans for patients who cannot pay bills in full.
These are almost always cheaper than borrowing.
Public Hospitals
(SingHealth, NUHS, NHG)
  • Payment plans available for outstanding bills after MediSave/insurance
  • Typically 6 to 24 months interest-free
  • Apply through hospital's finance department or medical social worker
  • Income assessment may be required
Private Hospitals
  • Mount Elizabeth, Gleneagles, Parkway East, and others offer instalment options
  • Credit card instalment plans (0% for 6 to 12 months with participating cards)
  • In-house payment plans for larger bills
  • Ask the billing department before admission
When to Use Hospital Plans vs Loans:
Situation
Bill under $10,000, can pay within 12 months
Bill over $10,000, need 2 to 5 years to repay
Emergency, no time to arrange
Already have high credit card debt
Best Option
Hospital 0% instalment plan
Personal loan (lower total interest than extended hospital plan)
Digital bank or moneylender, then refinance to bank loan
Personal loan to avoid 26% credit card interest

What Are the Pros & Cons of Medical Loans?

PROS

  • Covers medical costs not fully paid by MediSave/insurance
  • Fixed monthly repayments make budgeting predictable
  • Lower interest rates than credit cards (5% to 14% EIR vs 26% to 28%)
  • Fast approval within minutes
  • No collateral required (unsecured loan)
  • Can cover any medical expense including dental, fertility and overseas treatment

CONS

  • Adds debt burden during a potentially stressful health situation
  • Interest costs add to already expensive medical bills
  • Monthly repayments reduce disposable income
  • May not be necessary if government schemes are fully utilised
  • Poor repayment history damages credit score
  • Licensed moneylender rates can be very high (up to 48% p.a.)

LOAN APPLICATION PROCESS

How to Get a Medical Loan with ROSHI?

5 min

Apply Online

Apply in under 30 seconds using Singpass or our simple multi-step form. It’s quick, secure and hassle-free.

30 min

Get Matched

Review tailored loan options instantly. Our customer success team is here to help with any questions or concerns.

Same Day

Receive Your Funds

Connect with your preferred lender, finalise all paperwork and receive your funds.

Finding the Right Medical Loan (FAQs)

Is there a specific "medical loan" product in Singapore?

Medical loans are simply personal loans used for healthcare expenses. They are identical to standard personal loans in terms of eligibility, rates and terms. The funds can be used for any medical purpose once disbursed.
Always use MediSave first as it's your own money set aside specifically for healthcare with no interest cost. Only borrow if MediSave, insurance and Medifund are insufficient to cover remaining bills.
MediSave can only be used for approved procedures and has withdrawal limits per treatment. Cosmetic procedures, non-approved treatments and certain outpatient care are not covered.
Medifund is a government safety net for Singapore Citizens who cannot afford medical bills after MediSave and insurance. Apply through the hospital's medical social worker. Approval is based on financial assessment.
Personal loans have no restrictions on use so the money can be used for overseas treatment. However, MediSave generally cannot be used for overseas treatment except under specific approved schemes.
For emergencies, digital banks offer approval in minutes. Licensed moneylenders can disburse on the same day. For life threatening emergencies, hospitals will treat first and arrange payment later hence do not delay treatment due to financial concerns.
Personal loans can be used for any dental work including implants, braces, Invisalign, root canals or dentures. MediSave can cover certain surgical dental procedures but not routine dental care.
Personal loans can cover IVF, IUI and other fertility treatments. MediSave can also be used for approved Assisted Reproduction Technology (ART) treatments at licensed centres up to withdrawal limits.
Missed payments incur late fees and damage credit score. If struggling to repay, contact the lender early to discuss restructuring options. For bank loans, some hardship programmes may be available.
Credit card interest rates sit somewhere between 26% to 28% p.a. which are significantly higher than personal loan rates of 5% to 14% EIR. Only use credit cards if you can pay off the full balance within the interest-free period.
Some banks accept foreigners with valid Employment Pass or S Pass. Minimum income requirements are higher from $40,000 to $60,000 annually. Licensed moneylenders also serve foreigners with valid work passes.
Once a loan is disbursed to your bank account, you can use the funds to pay hospital bills via bank transfer, NETS or credit card. Some patients pay the bill first with a credit card then use the loan to pay off the card balance.

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