Many Singaporeans are still confused about what their CHAS card actually covers, which colour card gets what benefit, and when they qualify for different subsidy tiers [1].
This guide breaks everything down in simple language so that you know exactly what you pay and why.
What Is CHAS and Why Does It Matter?
The Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) helps Singaporeans receive affordable healthcare at participating GP and dental clinics. While most people know CHAS can reduce the cost of coughs, colds, and chronic care, fewer realise it plays a key role in subsidising national screening programmes like Screen for Life.
Your CHAS colour determines whether you pay $0, $2, or $5 for these essential checks.
The 2025 Price Guide: What You Pay
Here is the summary for Screen for Life (Diabetes, High Blood Pressure, Cholesterol, and Colorectal Cancer screening).
| Your Card / Status | You Pay |
| Pioneer Generation (PG) | $0 (Free) |
| Merdeka Generation (MG) | $2 |
| CHAS Blue | $2 |
| CHAS Orange | $2 |
| CHAS Green | $5 |
| No Card (Pink IC aged 40+) | $5 |
Note: This fee covers everything: the screening test(s) and the first post-screening consultation to review your results [2]. There should be no hidden costs.
The Tiers Explained in Detail
1. Pioneer Generation: Pay $0
If you are a Pioneer, your Screen for Life screening at a CHAS GP clinic costs nothing.
- Who qualifies: Born on or before 31 Dec 1949 AND became a citizen before 1987.
- Why: To ensure seniors receive essential preventive care without financial barriers.
2. Merdeka Generation: Pay $2
If you are part of the Merdeka Generation, your screening is capped at two dollars.
- Who qualifies: Born from 1950 to 1959 AND became a citizen before 1997.
- Why: To support healthy ageing and encourage regular check-ins.
3. CHAS Blue and Orange: Pay $2
Households with lower- to middle-income receive significant subsidies, paying the same low rate as the Merdeka Generation.
- CHAS Blue: Lower-income households (Per capita household income ≤ $1,200).
- CHAS Orange: Middle-income households (Per capita household income $1,201 – $2,000).
4. CHAS Green and “Other Citizens”: Pay $5
If you hold a CHAS Green card or no card at all, you are still eligible for the heavily subsidised rate of $5, provided you are a Singapore Citizen aged 40 or above.
- Misconception: Many CHAS Green cardholders think they pay full price. You do not. You qualify for the standard $5 Screen for Life rate.
Where Can You Use These Subsidies?
You cannot use these rates just anywhere. You must go to:
- CHAS GP Clinics: Look for the CHAS sticker on the clinic door.
- Healthier SG Clinics: If you’ve enrolled in Healthier SG, your screening is fully subsidised ($0) at your enrolled clinic for recommended tests, including blood pressure checks aligned with the latest MOH guidelines. [3].
What Does the Fee Cover?
When you pay your $2 or $5, you are paying for a “bundle” that includes:
- The Tests: Diabetes (HbA1c/Fasting Glucose), Cholesterol (Lipids), High Blood Pressure, and Colorectal Cancer (FIT Kit).
- The Review: One follow-up consultation with the doctor to interpret your results, similar in spirit to the checks your GP runs during a diabetes screening
What is NOT covered:
If you require medication after the screening (e.g., you are diagnosed with high blood pressure and need medication), the medication will be charged separately. However, your CHAS card will also subsidise those chronic medications.
How to Use Your CHAS Subsidy (3 Steps)
- Check: Ensure you have your NRIC and CHAS/PG/MG card.
- Book: Locate a CHAS clinic (via HealthHub) and make an appointment. Tell them you want a “Screen for Life.”
- Fast: Ask if you need to fast (usually 8–10 hours for cholesterol/sugar checks).
Key Takeaways
- Pioneers pay $0; Merdeka, Blue, and Orange pay $2.
- Green cardholders and all other citizens (40+) pay $5.
- The fee covers the test + consultation.
- You must visit a CHAS-participating GP clinic.
- Knowing your tier prevents confusion at the payment counter.
Editorial Note: The information provided in this article is for educational purposes only and is not intended to serve as professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Mirai Osmo and its contributors are not liable for any damages, injuries, or losses resulting from the use or reliance on this information. By using this guide, you acknowledge that you are responsible for your own health decisions and outcomes. We strongly recommend consulting with a healthcare professional before making any decisions related to your personal health screening or treatment.
References
- Community Health Assist Scheme. CHAS Eligibility and Benefits. (2024).
- HealthHub. Healthier SG Screening Programme Details. (2025).
- Healthier SG. Preventive Care and Subsidies. (2025).
- Community Health Assist Scheme. Clinic Locator. (nd).