The Singapore Cancer Society (SCS) offers cancer screening at no cost to eligible Singaporeans and permanent residents (Set up health screening fund for the needy by Mr Andrew Seow Chwee Guan; March 30).
SCS has been offering pap smears (to screen for cervical cancer) to eligible women since 1969, and distributing faecal immunochemical test kits (to detect blood in stools, which may be a sign of colorectal cancer) free since 2002.
In 2015, SCS began mammogram screening services. Singaporean women aged 50 and above, possessing a valid Community Health Assist Scheme card (orange or blue), are eligible for a mammogram at no charge at the SCS Cancer Screening Clinic located at Bishan's Junction 8 Office Tower.
One of the key reasons people are not going for their first screening is concern over treatment cost if cancer is detected. However, there are financial schemes from the Government and charities like SCS.
SCS provides financial assistance to alleviate the burden of treatment costs for Singaporeans and permanent residents from low- and middle-income families.
It provides avenues for assistance at every stage of treatment.
The SCS Cancer Care Fund is a one-time scheme to provide for the immediate needs of patients within the first six months of diagnosis.
The SCS Cancer Treatment Fund extends cancer treatment subsidies to patients who are referred to SCS by doctors and medical social workers.
The SCS Welfare Aid Fund assists patients and their families with temporary financial aid during and after treatment to mitigate the financial strain from unemployment, loss of income and hefty treatment costs.
This fund also includes the provision of supplies such as milk supplements, stoma bags, diapers and medical equipment.
To further ease their financial burden, we also provide free transport to and from four hospitals for beneficiaries who have chemotherapy, radiation and medical appointments.
At SCS, we strive to support every needy person and family who requires cancer support. The eligibility criteria can be found at www.singaporecancersociety.org.sg
Albert Ching
Chief Executive Officer
Singapore Cancer Society
