Guide to Osteoarthritis in Singapore: Treatments, Costs, and Insurance Support

Osteoarthritis in Singapore is a growing health concern, particularly among individuals over the age of 50. This condition results from the gradual breakdown of joint cartilage and underlying bone, most commonly affecting the knees, hips, hands, and spine. Early detection and timely treatment are essential to preserve mobility and maintain a good quality of life.

Despite impacting an estimated 10% to 20% of older adults in Singapore, osteoarthritis is often dismissed as a normal part of aging. This misconception leads many to delay seeking care until symptoms worsen. In this article, we explore the causes, diagnosis, and treatment options for osteoarthritis in Singapore, along with cost estimates and how insurance or MediSave can help reduce the financial burden.

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What is Osteoarthritis?

Osteoarthritis is a long-term degenerative joint condition that occurs when the cartilage, the smooth tissue that cushions the ends of bones, wears away over time. As the cartilage thins out, bones may grind against each other, causing pain, stiffness, swelling, and limited joint movement.

Unlike autoimmune conditions like rheumatoid arthritis, OA is primarily driven by physical and age-related factors. Although commonly labeled as a “wear and tear” disease, it also involves complex biochemical changes in joint cartilage, bone, and surrounding tissues.

Key Characteristics of Osteoarthritis

• Cartilage Breakdown: Cartilage loses its elasticity and becomes rough and thin.
• Bone Changes: The body tries to repair the damage by growing new bone, called osteophytes or bone spurs, which can make joints look swollen and deformed.
• Synovial Inflammation: The synovium, which produces joint fluid, can become inflamed, further contributing to joint stiffness and discomfort.
• Joint Space Narrowing: X-rays often show narrowing of the joint space as cartilage wears away.

Commonly Affected Joints

Osteoarthritis can affect any joint, but it most commonly targets:

• Knees – often causing difficulty in walking or climbing stairs.
• Hips – leading to pain in the groin or buttocks.
• Hands and Fingers – which may show bony enlargements (Heberden’s or Bouchard’s nodes).
• Spine – particularly the lower back and neck.

Stages of Osteoarthritis

OA is a progressive disease, usually developing slowly over years. It is generally classified into four stages:

1. Stage 1 – Minor: Minimal wear-and-tear with little or no pain.
2. Stage 2 – Mild: Noticeable discomfort after long activity or stiffness in the morning.
3. Stage 3 – Moderate: Erosion of cartilage, increased pain, possible bone spurs.
4. Stage 4 – Severe: Severe joint pain, significant cartilage loss, reduced mobility, and visible joint deformities.

Diagnosis and Tests for Osteoarthritis

Diagnosing osteoarthritis (OA) involves a comprehensive approach:

• Medical History & Physical Examination: Doctors assess symptoms, joint function, and risk factors.
• Imaging Tests:
  • X-rays: Detect joint space narrowing and bone spurs.
  • MRI Scans: Provide detailed images of cartilage and soft tissues.
• Laboratory Tests:
  • Blood Tests: Rule out other conditions like rheumatoid arthritis.
  • Joint Aspiration: Analyzes synovial fluid to exclude infections or gout.

These diagnostic tools help in confirming OA and formulating an effective treatment plan.

Treatment Options in Singapore

Non-Surgical Treatments

• Medications:
  • Paracetamol: For mild pain relief.
  • NSAIDs: Reduce inflammation and alleviate pain.
  • Topical Agents: Creams and ointments for localized relief.
• Physiotherapy: Tailored exercises to strengthen muscles and improve joint flexibility.
• Injections:
  • Corticosteroids: Provide temporary pain relief.
  • Hyaluronic Acid: Lubricates joints to enhance mobility.

Surgical Treatments

• Arthroscopy: Minimally invasive procedure to clean the joint.
• Joint Replacement: Partial or total replacement of the affected joint.

Alternative and Supportive Therapies

Supplements: Glucosamine and chondroitin may provide symptom relief.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM): Acupuncture and herbal remedies are commonly used.

Shockwave Therapy: Non-invasive treatment that may benefit those with mild to moderate knee OA.

Cost of Osteoarthritis Treatment in Singapore

Treatment costs can vary based on the facility and treatment type:

• Consultation Fees:
  • Public Hospitals: S$50 – S$150 per visit.
  • Private Hospitals: S$150 – S$300 per visit.
• Diagnostic Tests:
  • X-ray: S$50 – S$100.
  • MRI: S$1,000 – S$2,000.
• Physiotherapy Sessions: S$80 – S$150 per session.
• Injections: S$300 – S$1,200 per injection.
• Knee Replacement Surgery:
  • Private Hospitals: Approximately S$36,000.

These figures are estimates and can vary based on individual cases and hospital policies.

Insurance Coverage & Subsidies

MediSave

Under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP), MediSave can be used for outpatient treatment of osteoarthritis:

• Annual Withdrawal Limit: Up to S$500 per account.
• Co-payment: Patients may need to co-pay 15% of the bill in cash.

MediShield Life & Integrated Shield Plans (IPs)

All Singaporeans and Permanent Residents are covered under MediShield Life, which helps with large hospital bills. For additional coverage:

• Integrated Shield Plans: Offer enhanced benefits, including coverage for private hospital stays and higher ward classes.

It’s advisable to consult with your financial advisor to understand the specifics of your coverage, including any riders or additional benefits.

Speak with a Financial Advisor

Managing osteoarthritis involves both medical care and financial planning. Consulting a financial advisor can help you understand your insurance options, including MediSave, MediShield Life, and Integrated Shield Plans. They can also assist in budgeting for consultations, therapies, and potential surgeries, while ensuring you make the most of available subsidies and insurance coverage. To assist our readers in this regard, we have partnered with financial advisors who can guide you every step of the way. Click the button below to connect with one of our preferred financial consultants.

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