New healthcare travel package launched for the Middle East

The World-Class Health Packages initiative, which is supported by Singapore Airlines, Singapore Medicine, and the world famous Raffles Hospital, offers GCC nationals the opportunity to fly to Singapore, receive a range of advanced health screening services at Raffles Hospital, and stay in five star hotels as part of one easily-arranged, affordable package.

The packages will be available from travel agents and tour organizers in the UAE, with a range of health screening packages on offer.

"Increasing numbers of people are seeking the highest standard of healthcare for themselves and their families, and are considering the full range of options, including travel to countries like Singapore," said Alan Tan, Area Director, Middle East and Africa. "We've supported the creation of these healthcare packages to make access to overseas health screening in some of the world's most advanced facilities easier and more comfortable for people in the Middle East"

In addition to the specialized screening service, Raffles Hospital will also offer a variety of comprehensive screening tests, such as laboratory analysis, ultrasound, and medical analysis of such "silent killers" as heart disease, diabetes, hypertension and cancers.

Raffles International Patients Center provides personalized service for foreign visitors, including arrangements for appointments and referrals to the appropriate specialists. In addition, they will also arrange for transportation and offer concierge services such as interpreters, travel and visa arrangements and currency exchange.

The hospital subscribes to the group practice model, a feature of leading hospitals worldwide. Patients are cared for by a team of full-time in-house specialists during their stay, and are able to benefit from the different strengths of a team of specialists most skilled to manage any condition.

As the foremost centre for treatment and medical practice in Singapore, Raffles Hospital provides international patients with specialist centers for over 30 disciplines. The institution is distinguished for its treatment of eye diseases and vision disorders, various heart conditions such as coronary heart disease and hypertension, as well as a wide range of surgical operations.

Singapore Airlines will also play an active role in promoting the packages, ensuring that passengers have smooth, comfortable flights, and liaising with Raffles in Singapore to ensure smooth transit of patients.

"We support this initiative as part of our commitment to remain the most innovative and service-oriented company in the air travel industry and to ensure that, for passengers using this service, the flight is an intrinsically enjoyable part of the experience," said Zainul Al Junied, General Manager Gulf, Singapore Airlines. "Increasing numbers of people in the Middle East are investigating their options for patient care abroad, and this initiative will provide ease-of-use and peace of mind."

Singapore has been ranked by the World Health Organization as having the best healthcare system in Asia and one of the best in the world. Subsequently, an independent survey published by the Political and Economic Risk Consultancy revealed that expatriates rated Singapore healthcare system third in the world, following the United States and Australia.

"Thanks to initiatives launched by SingaporeMedicine and other major bodies, Singapore has leapt to the forefront of the world's medical innovation, and our health packages will allow more people than ever to take advantage of this advancement," Tan concluded.