Many people associate physiotherapy as a form of treatment mainly for athletes with muscle or bone related injuries. However, physiotherapy goes beyond that.
Physiotherapy involves the prevention, assessment and treatment of disorders of human movement due to disabilities, trauma or illness. It aims to reduce pain, improve muscle strength, joint range and mobility, as well as increase exercise tolerance and improve respiratory function.
More people these days are looking to physiotherapists for treatment for their injuries and illnesses. This is especially so for people that do sports and other intensive activities frequently. Physiotherapists also assist stroke patients to regain their mobility and to aid in patients’ rehabilitation. Physiotherapy for rehabilitation include (but is not limited to):
- Sports rehabilitation (including post-operation)
- Musculoskeletal injuries
- Chronic pain management
- Amputee rehabilitation
- Neurological rehabilitation (head injuries, strokes, etc.)
- Cardio-Respiratory
- Gerontology (elderly care)
Physiotherapy sessions however, are not cheap (as expected with any form of medical treatment in Singapore).
Read Also: Medical Inflation At 15% – Why That Spells Disaster
Physiotherapy Sessions
In general, most physio sessions include both consultation as well as treatment. This is unless the condition is complicated or other reasons present that prevents the patient from commencing treatment.
It is possible to go to a physiotherapist just for a consultation, assessment and diagnosing the problem. However, follow-up treatment is deemed necessary for most patients. Treatment usually includes exercises assigned and assisted by a physio.
Public
Public sessions with physios can be done at public hospitals such as Singapore General Hospital (SGH), Khoo Teck Puat Hospital (KTPH) and Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH). These sessions usually require a referral and an advanced appointment to be made.
Public fees are split into private and public, depending on one’s status. Physio sessions at public hospitals are generally more cost-friendly as you can get subsidies, especially if you are a Singapore citizen or a Permanent Resident (PR).
Private
For the private sector, a physio session at a clinic within the CBD/Orchard area would cost about $140-$180 a session.
It is important to look at the time period of the session you are allocated to by the physio. Some physio sessions might be cheaper because they offer a 45minute session rather than a 60minute session. However, some physios also willingly extend the time period based on the progress of their patient.
Private physios offer some of the benefits private specialists provide, including a shorter waiting/queue time, ease of making appointments and more personal treatment. This is of course, at a higher price.
Read Also: Are Doctors Charging More Than They Need To?
Other Services
Some private clinics also provide home therapy service, where physios go to you to provide the treatment. This is especially useful for patients that find it challenging to head down to clinics or hospitals. This is also for clients that prefer physio services in the comfort of their home, office or gym.
Private physios can also provide on-field physiotherapy. These physios follow sports teams for their training and competitions, providing their service on-site. They assist with pre-game preparations and respond to any injuries sustained.
Physiotherapy has become increasingly relevant in Singapore, with more people sustaining injuries and illnesses that require physio treatment. Better knowledge of how physiotherapy can help your rehabilitation as well as knowing the differences in public and private physio services would help in choosing the right one for you.
Listen to our podcast, where we have in-depth discussions on finance topics that matter to you.
