Record-Breaking Clinic Rental in Tampines Raises Eyebrows — What It Means for Healthcare Access

A recent tender for a GP clinic space in Tampines has set a new record in Singapore, with the winning rental bid coming in at a staggering $52,188 per month. Located at Block 954C, Tampines Street 96, the 560-square-foot clinic space attracted 13 bids — showcasing the growing demand for HDB clinic spaces in mature estates.

This rental translates to over $1,000 per square meter, the highest per square foot (PSF) rent ever recorded for general practitioner and dental clinics in HDB estates of similar size.

Who Won the Bid?

The winning bidder was Dr. Shaun Lum, co-owner of I-Health Medical Holdings. Despite the high cost, he believes Tampines offers long-term value due to its high residential density and need for accessible medical services. The new GP clinic in Tampines is expected to open later this month.

Rising Rents Raise Concerns

Health Minister Ong Ye Kung has expressed concern over such skyrocketing clinic rentals. He cautioned that these costs could be passed on to patients, ultimately raising primary healthcare costs in Singapore — something the government is working to prevent.

In response, HDB clinic tenders in Singapore will soon adopt a new Price-Quality Evaluation Model (PQM). Under this system, 70% of the evaluation will be based on service quality and 30% on rental price, ensuring that affordable and quality healthcare remains a priority for residents.

No Extra Charges for Patients

Despite the record-breaking rent, I-Health Medical Holdings assures patients that they will not be charged beyond standard medical consultation rates in Singapore. The clinic aims to focus on long-term patient care and quality medical services rather than maximizing short-term profits.

What This Means for Healthcare in Singapore

This case highlights a growing trend in Singapore’s healthcare real estate market, where competition for clinic spaces in mature HDB estates like Tampines is heating up. It also raises important questions about how to balance rental economics with affordable healthcare access.

For Singaporeans, especially those living in Tampines, this development is a sign that while healthcare accessibility remains strong, sustainable rental policies will be crucial in keeping medical costs in check.