The reason for routine health screening is to identify potential health issues before they become serious problems. Regular health screenings can help detect diseases like diabetes, heart disease, and cancer at an early stage when they are often more manageable and less costly to treat.
Providers usually package health screenings to offer comprehensive assessments which ensures thorough evaluation, cost-effectiveness, and convenience for patients. A good health screening package in Singapore should take care of a range of tests and evaluations tailored to your unique needs.
But what is usually included in health screening packages? And, how do you choose the best health screening package? Those are the key questions we will be addressing on this page but first;
What is a Health Screening Package?
Quite simply, think of a health screening package as a set of medical tests and evaluations for assessing your overall health and identifying any potential issues. In Singapore, these packages can be tailored to suit different needs and budgets. Typically, they range from basic to comprehensive packages.
Basic packages usually include essential tests like blood pressure measurements, blood tests to check cholesterol and glucose levels, and urine tests. A basic package would be ideal if you are generally healthy but want to monitor your health regularly.
Comprehensive packages offer a more detailed assessment. They may include advanced tests like imaging studies (e.g., X-rays or ultrasounds), cancer screenings, and evaluations of heart and kidney function. These packages are ideal for people with specific health concerns or those at higher risk for certain conditions.
Premium packages provide an even more thorough examination. In a premium health screening package, you can expect to also get access to additional tests like genetic screenings or advanced cardiac assessments. The choice of package depends on factors like age, gender, lifestyle, and personal health history.
What’s typically included in a Health Screening Package in Singapore?
As you have seen, health screening packages in Singapore vary considerably. Nonetheless, most of them include several core components designed to provide a comprehensive overview of your health. Here’s a roundup of what is typically included in a health screening package;
- Blood Tests: These are a staple in any health screening package. They include a Complete Blood Count (CBC) to evaluate overall health and detect a variety of disorders, cholesterol tests to measure lipid levels, and glucose tests to check for diabetes. Some packages may also include liver and kidney function tests.
- Urine Analysis: This test checks for infections, kidney function, and other metabolic conditions. It provides insights into your body’s overall health and can help detect issues that might not be evident through blood tests alone.
- Imaging Tests: Basic packages often include a chest X-ray to assess lung health and screen for abnormalities. More comprehensive packages might add ultrasound imaging to evaluate abdominal organs.
- Heart Health: Monitoring heart health is crucial. Most packages include a blood pressure check and an Electrocardiogram (ECG) to assess the heart’s electrical activity.
- Cancer Screenings: Depending on the package, you might receive tests like a Pap smear for cervical cancer, a mammogram for breast cancer, or a colonoscopy for colon cancer. This is particularly true for those at higher risk or above certain age thresholds.
Additional Tests in Comprehensive Packages
If you’re looking for a more thorough health assessment, you may be recommended a comprehensive health screening package in Singapore. This package will offer additional tests beyond the basics. For example, you may find;
- Cardiac Risk Assessments: These might include a stress test, where the heart is monitored while you exercise, and an echocardiogram, which uses ultrasound to visualize heart structures and function. These tests help assess your risk of heart disease and overall cardiac health.
- Bone Health: A DEXA scan is often included in comprehensive packages to assess bone density and identify risks for osteoporosis. They’re particularly recommended for older adults or those with specific risk factors like altered hormone levels, for example.
- Cancer Markers: Advanced screenings might include tests for tumor markers such as the Prostate-Specific Antigen (PSA) for prostate cancer or CA 125 for ovarian cancer. These tests help in the early detection of cancers before symptoms appear.
- Diabetes Markers: A HbA1c test measures average blood sugar levels over the past few months. This way, it provides a more comprehensive picture of long-term glucose control.
- Other Specialized Screenings: Depending on the package, you might also undergo lung function tests or liver function tests. These specialized screenings can offer further insightful information into your overall health.
What should you look for when choosing a Health Screening Package?
To choose the best health screening package in Singapore, you will want to consider your personal health needs, risk factors, and lifestyle. Here are a few pointers to help you choose the best health screening package in Singapore:
- Assess Your Health Needs: Review your health history and current concerns. If you have a family history of certain diseases or are experiencing symptoms, a more comprehensive package might be necessary.
- Consider Your Age and Gender: Some screenings are recommended based on age and gender. For instance, women may need mammograms, while men may require PSA tests. Age-related screenings, like colonoscopies, also become more relevant as you get older.
- Evaluate Your Risk Factors: If you have risk factors such as a sedentary lifestyle, poor diet, or smoking, you might benefit from more extensive testing. Comprehensive packages often include additional tests to address these risks.
- Compare Packages and Costs: Health screening packages vary in price. So, take time to compare the costs and what’s included. It would be best to invest in a more comprehensive package as this can sometimes provide better value by offering a more thorough assessment of your health.
Wrapping Up
Regular health screenings are not only a key part of maintaining good health. They’re also key for preventing serious conditions.
It doesn’t matter whether you opt for a basic, comprehensive, or premium package. Investing in your health through regular screenings is a smart choice that in the future you will be happy you made.
Be sure to consult with a knowledgeable healthcare provider to select the right package and get the most out of your health screening. If you’re in Singapore, we invite you to schedule an appointment at Ardennes Health to discuss your options. Details below;
Ardennes Health
60 Paya Lebar Rd, #02-01/04,
Singapore 409051
+65 6980 3045
