Polyclinics bringing breast care closer to home
Published on 11 October 2025
Breast cancer strikes one in 13 women but when caught early, more than 90 per cent survive.
From 2023 to 2024, the number of mammograms performed at NUP has soared by 46 per cent — from 13,939 to 20,410.
Convenience, trust and access are making all the difference.
No more long, stressful trips to hospitals
Today, women can get their mammograms at five NUP polyclinics — Bukit Batok, Bukit Panjang, Choa Chu Kang, Clementi and Pioneer.
Women can book appointments online at any time of day, cutting both travel and waiting times. “By situating mammogram services within the community, women gain convenient access during routine health check-ups,” said Ms Sor.
“This proximity not only enhances accessibility but also encourages higher participation through ongoing patient education and regular interactions with primary-care teams, thereby strengthening continuity of care.”
She added that moving mammography from hospital-based settings to community-focused polyclinics reframes the experience as a preventive health measure rather than a response to illness.
“This shift helps normalise mammograms as a routine part of women’s health screening, reducing anxiety and fostering a proactive culture where regular screening is viewed as an essential component of lifelong wellness.”
Every image is done using digital imaging systems for detailed, low-radiation results. Radiographers trained in mammography guide patients through the process, making it comfortable and reassuring. The mammograms are reviewed by breast radiologists, ensuring accuracy and consistency.
Supporting survivors, close to home
When treatment ends, support carries on. Through the National University Cancer Institute, Singapore (NCIS) Breast Cancer Survivorship Programme, eligible survivors continue their follow-ups at polyclinics or with their family general practitioners (GPs).
“NCIS is leading the National Shared Care Initiative for Cancer Survivorship, where breast cancer survivors in remission continue their check-ups and preventive care with their family doctor,” said Adj Associate Prof Samuel Ow, Senior Consultant, Department of Haematology-Oncology, NCIS.
“The partnership between NCIS and polyclinics/GPs ensures a smooth transition of care from hospital to community,” he added.
Dr Alicia Ong, Family Physician, Associate Consultant from NUP said the shift helps make care more convenient and holistic. “Patients save time and costs, and their family doctors can oversee both cancer surveillance and other health needs, with quick access back to specialists if needed,” she said.
She noted that NUP’s care coordinators also help track if patients are on schedule for their screenings. “This shared-care approach brings together accessibility, continuity and reassurance for patients,” she said.
If any issues arise, a Fast-Track Referral System ensures patients are referred to NCIS specialists within two weeks, keeping care consistent and responsive.
Patients said they felt more at ease, with reduced travel, fewer appointments, and stronger continuity of care.
Anchoring care in the community
Dr Ong added that NUP had expanded mammography screening to more polyclinics — including Bukit Panjang and Choa Chu Kang — with Tengah Polyclinic next in line.
“This anchors cancer screening in the polyclinics where patients are already used to being seen at,” she said.
The strategy aligns with Healthier SG’s vision: empowering Singaporeans to take charge of their health with care rooted in their neighbourhoods.
What to expect from a mammogram Who should go? How to book? What happens? Getting results If you’re called back Fast-track care |
In consultation with Adj Associate Prof Samuel Ow, Senior Consultant, Department of Haematology-Oncology, NCIS and Adjunct Associate Professor, Department of Medicine, Yong Loo Lin School of Medicine, National University of Singapore; Dr Alicia Ong, Family Physician, Associate Consultant, NUP; and Ms Sor Chai Kam, Lead Mammographer, NUHS Diagnostics.