Quick Summary
The main difference is how you get in and what you pay: public physiotherapy is subsidised and generally starts with a referral, while private physiotherapy lets you book directly at a higher price. Subsidised public care at Specialist Outpatient Clinics is means-tested and needs a referral from an eligible source such as a polyclinic or a CHAS GP clinic. At a private clinic like Physio & Sole Clinic, most services need no doctor's referral, and appointments are available within the week. Neither route is "better" in general. The right one depends on your budget, how you were referred, and how much flexibility you need over timing and location.
What Is the Difference Between Private and Public Physiotherapy in Singapore?
Public physiotherapy is delivered through polyclinics and public hospitals, where subsidies lower the cost; private physiotherapy is delivered by independent clinics where you pay the clinic's own fees. The practical differences come down to three things: how you get a first appointment, what you pay, and how much choice you have over where and when you are seen.
Both routes should be delivered by a registered physiotherapist. Registration is a legal requirement in Singapore, covered below.
For subsidised care, the Ministry of Health states that Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents referred from eligible referral sources are eligible for Specialist Outpatient Clinic subsidies. Referral rules differ between institutions. For example, SingHealth Polyclinics provides physiotherapy care to patients aged 13 and above and currently accepts physiotherapy referrals only from specific sources, so check with the institution before you assume you can be referred.
How Do You Book Private Physiotherapy?
You can usually book a private physiotherapy appointment directly, without seeing a doctor first. At Physio & Sole Clinic, a doctor's referral is not always necessary, although some insurers may require a GP referral if you are claiming.
Appointments are available within the week, depending on the clinic and clinician, and confirmed when you book. A typical session lasts around 45 minutes, and physiotherapy starts from $210 for 45 minutes, before GST, with no surcharge if a session runs over.
Private vs Public Physiotherapy: Side by Side
Cost, referral, and flexibility are the three differences that matter most.
| Question | Public (subsidised) | Private (Physio & Sole Clinic) |
|---|---|---|
| Do I need a referral? | Generally yes, from an eligible source such as a polyclinic or CHAS GP clinic | Not always; some insurers may ask for a GP referral |
| What will I pay? | Subsidised, up to 70% for Singapore Citizens and 25% for Permanent Residents, means-tested | From $210 for a 45-minute session, before GST |
| How soon can I start? | Depends on the institution and referral | Within the week, confirmed at booking |
| Who decides where I go? | The institution you are referred to | You choose from 11 clinics |
| Payment and schemes | Subsidy applied automatically by the institution | CDC Vouchers at selected branches; direct billing with partner insurers |
Can CDC Vouchers or Insurance Help With Private Physiotherapy?
Some of it can, depending on your vouchers and your policy. CDC Vouchers are accepted at the Yishun, Kovan and Woodlands branches, so ask the clinic which services they cover when you book. Direct billing is available with partner insurers including Allianz, Cigna Healthcare, Raffles Health and International SOS, subject to your insurance membership terms and whether Physio & Sole Clinic is on your insurer's panel.
CHAS does not apply to physiotherapy. The clinic's CHAS offer is 20% off podiatry for Blue and Orange cardholders, and physiotherapy is not included.
Whether your own plan pays for outpatient physiotherapy is a question for your insurer. Ask before your visit, and ask whether they need a GP referral letter.
How Do You Check That a Physiotherapist Is Registered?
Every physiotherapist practising in Singapore must be registered with the Allied Health Professions Council and holds a valid practising certificate, and you can search the register yourself. The AHPC requires registration and a practising certificate before anyone can practise as an allied health professional. This applies equally to public and private settings, so use it as your first check in either one.
Which Route Suits You?
Public physiotherapy tends to suit you if you already have a referral and subsidy matters most; private tends to suit you if you want to choose the clinic, the time and the therapist yourself.
- Public may suit you if: you were referred by a polyclinic, hospital or CHAS GP clinic, you qualify for a subsidy, and you can work around the institution's schedule.
- Private may suit you if: you have no referral and want to book directly, you need appointments near home or work across Singapore, or you want to use CDC Vouchers or an insurer's direct billing.
- Either way: pain that is sudden, severe, or follows a fall or accident should be seen by a doctor first.
Making the Call
There is no single right answer, only the one that fits your referral, your budget, and your schedule. If you are unsure, start with the practical questions: do you have a referral, what subsidy applies to you, and how soon do you want to be seen? Then compare that against what a private clinic can offer in your part of Singapore.
Booking Your Physiotherapy in Singapore?
Book physiotherapy at Physio & Sole Clinic, find your nearest branch on the locations page, or check what your plan covers on the insurance page. Prices are on the pricing page.
Ready to feel better?
Book a consultation with our physiotherapy team to get an assessment tailored to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
For subsidised public care, generally yes. For private care, not always, though some insurers may ask for one when you claim.
Up to 70% for Singapore Citizens and 25% for Permanent Residents at Specialist Outpatient Clinics, set by household means-testing. The institution confirms your own subsidy.
Yes, you can choose to see a private clinic at any time. Bring along any reports or imaging you already have so your physiotherapist does not need to start from scratch.
No. The clinic's CHAS offer is 20% off podiatry for Blue and Orange cardholders on weekday appointments between 9am and 5pm, and physiotherapy is not included.
Around 45 minutes, though the duration may vary according to your condition.
No, there is no fee for late cancellations or notices.
