
Actual statistics from "The World Health Report 2000 - Health systems: Improving performance." The U. S. health system spends a higher portion of its gross domestic product than any other country but ranks #37 out of 191 countries according to its performance. However, the US ranks #1 in health expenditure per capita, while Singapore ranks 6th in the overall health system performance and 38th in the health expenditure per capita. Singapore has an established reputation as a country where everything works and what is promised gets delivered. It is a regional medical hub with a pool of skilled and experienced medical professionals and researchers, who are able to provide top-notch healthcare services and develop the next generation of cutting edge treatments. Singapore provides the complete spectrum of healthcare services from primary care, such as health screening, to quaternary care services such as organ transplants. Patients can also select from a wide range of services to enhance their health, including medical wellness, aesthetic and anti-ageing programs. Singapore has one third of all JCI- accredited facilities in Asia. In 2006 about 410,000 visitors, out of almost 10 million visitors, declared that they came to Singapore primarily for healthcare reason. Singapore enjoys a warm tropical weather that is relatively calm and consistent throughout the year. It is free from natural disasters like earth-quake, typhoons, tidal waves and floods.
Singapore's Changi International Airport serves more than 80 airlines to over 180 cities and has for many consecutive years been nominated as the best airport in the world.
It is also probably the most wired country in Asia, with an Internet penetration rate of 70%.
 The nation's rich multi-cultural heritage is highlighted through the various ethnic groups (Chinese, Malays, Indians, Eurasians) living together harmoniously that have gradually acquired a distinct identity as Singaporeans whilst still maintaining each race's traditional practices, customs and festivals. In addition, with more than 100,000 professional expatriates living and working in Singapore, they too bring their unique cultures and perspectives, adding color and vibrancy to cosmopolitan Singapore. English is the main official language that binds the various ethic groups together, and communication with patients from English speaking countries is a breeze.
Singapore is not a big country, but the island state bustles all over with attractions and activities. Dining and shopping are two of the top-rated activities of locals.
Needless to say, this is reflected in the staggering range of foods and cuisine, as well as the proliferation of shops in the city and suburban centers.
 In addition to this is a thriving arts and cultural scene, especially with the opening of Esplanade - Theatres on the Bay, featuring world-class artistes from all over the world. Ethnic districts such as Little India, Chinatown, Malay Village give a flavor of the culture and history of Singapore. Lots of fun and funky events such as the Great Singapore Sale, Singapore Arts Festival, festive light-ups and many others make Singapore a most "happening" place to be in.
Singapore is also strategically located at the heart of Asia and a gateway to explore the Southeast Asian region. Patients recuperating from surgeries frequently take short trips to more than 10 countries in the region within 3 hours flight time. In the latest 2006 survey by the Economist Intelligence Unit (EIU) involving 350 cities, Singapore was ranked ‘first' in Asia for offering the best quality of life. Thirty-nine factors were considered, including political stability, personal freedom, air pollution and the quality of healthcare, schools, restaurants and theatres.
One of the best things about being in Singapore is undoubtedly the food. It is no secret that Singaporeans eat and drink with a passion. For the newcomer, deciding where and what to eat can be an intimidating, yet at the same time, exciting experience.
Almost every major international cuisine can be found in Singapore. With hundreds of restaurants dotted around the island, you will never have to look very far for that wood-fired pizza or Japanese sashimi.
The choice is so varied it is sometimes startling - there are whole streets where Chinese, Malay, Indian and Peranakan eateries rub shoulders with their Japanese, Thais, American, French, Mexican and Mediterranean counterparts. |