Tracheostomy Care at Home in Singapore

What it costs

typically S$160–220 per visit for the nurse's time. Consumables are billed separately at cost — no markup. The fee also covers travel within mainland Singapore and a written summary for the patient's doctor. See the full pricing list.

Surcharges, where they apply:

• Same-day / urgent (booked within 24 hours): +S$60
• Off-island / remote zones (Sentosa, Jurong Island, Tuas South): +S$55
• Visits beyond 60 minutes: +S$60 per additional 30 minutes

What happens during the visit

• The nurse checks the stoma site and the skin around it.
• The inner cannula is cleaned or replaced.
• Ties and the stoma dressing are changed.
• Suctioning is carried out where it is needed, and the technique is demonstrated.
• Humidification, and cleaning and storage of equipment, are reviewed.
• The family or helper is coached through the routine and given an emergency plan.
• A written visit summary is left for the patient's own doctor.

Who needs this

People discharged home with a tracheostomy after a prolonged hospital stay, head and neck surgery, or a neurological condition — and the families and helpers who look after them day to day.

How often: Varies with the patient. Some need a weekly review, others a visit only when something changes or a carer needs re-training.

Subsidies you may be eligible for

Eligible Singapore Citizens and PRs may qualify for AIC-subsidised home nursing and the Home Caregiving Grant. See home nursing subsidies for who qualifies and how to apply.

When to call a doctor

• The tube comes out, or is blocked and cannot be cleared — call 995
• Difficulty breathing, noisy breathing, or the patient looks distressed or blue
• Fresh bleeding from the tracheostomy
• Increasing redness, swelling, pus or a smell at the stoma
• Fever, thick discoloured secretions, or a change in how much suctioning is needed

For urgent or severe symptoms, call 995 or go to the nearest A&E.