Haze Subsidy Scheme Singapore 2026: Eligibility, Symptoms & GP Clinics Near You

Haze is a recurring concern in Singapore, often caused by smoke from regional forest fires drifting across the country. While reduced visibility and a smoky smell are among its more noticeable effects, prolonged exposure can also affect your health. You might experience irritated eyes, a persistent cough or breathing difficulties, particularly if you have an existing respiratory condition.

For those who need medical attention, the Ministry of Health (MOH) activated the Haze Subsidy Scheme on 12 October 2026 to help eligible Singaporeans manage the cost of treatment for haze-related conditions. Phoenix Medical Group is among the participating clinics where patients can access these subsidies.

Read on to find out how haze affects your health, whether you qualify for subsidised treatment and what the scheme covers.

How does haze affect your health?

Haze contains fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and other air pollutants that can irritate your eyes, nose, throat and lungs. PM2.5 particles are small enough to travel deep into the lungs, where they can trigger inflammation and worsen existing respiratory conditions.

The effects of haze depend on the severity of air pollution, how long you are exposed and your overall health. Some common symptoms include:

• Eye irritation: Redness, itching, watering or a burning sensation.
• Nose and throat irritation: Sneezing, a runny nose, sore throat or general discomfort.
• Coughing: A persistent cough or increased mucus production as the airways become irritated.
• Breathing difficulties: Shortness of breath, wheezing or chest tightness, particularly among individuals with respiratory conditions.
• Worsening of existing conditions: Haze exposure can trigger asthma attacks, aggravate chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and increase the risk of cardiovascular complications in vulnerable individuals.

Who is more vulnerable to the effects of haze?

Although haze can affect anyone, certain groups face a greater risk of developing symptoms or experiencing complications. These include young children, older adults, pregnant women and individuals with pre-existing heart or lung conditions.

For these groups, limiting outdoor activities and monitoring air quality are particularly important when pollution levels rise. Those who experience persistent symptoms or notice a worsening of their existing conditions should seek medical attention.

What is the Haze Subsidy Scheme in Singapore?

The Haze Subsidy Scheme (HSS) is a government initiative introduced by the Ministry of Health (MOH) to make medical treatment more affordable for Singaporeans affected by haze. It subsidises the cost of treatment for haze-related conditions at participating Public Health Preparedness Clinics (PHPCs), covering both the consultation and medication prescribed for qualifying conditions.

The scheme is activated during periods of significant haze, when more people may require medical attention for respiratory symptoms and other health concerns associated with poor air quality.

Under the scheme, eligible patients can receive treatment at a reduced cost, with the amount payable depending on their age, household income or eligibility for existing government healthcare assistance schemes.

Phoenix Medical Group is a participating clinic under the Haze Subsidy Scheme, allowing eligible patients to seek subsidised treatment for qualifying haze-related conditions.

Who is eligible for the Haze Subsidy Scheme?

All Singapore Citizens are eligible for the scheme at polyclinics. At participating Public Health Preparedness Clinics (PHPCs) such as Phoenix Medical Group, the following groups of Singapore Citizens are eligible:

Unsure if you qualify? Contact Phoenix Medical Group before your visit.

What medical conditions are covered under the Haze Subsidy Scheme?

The Haze Subsidy Scheme covers six medical conditions and their complications, provided a doctor determines that they are related to haze exposure.

Eligible conditions include:

How can you protect yourself during hazy weather?

While haze exposure cannot always be avoided, there are several ways to reduce its effects on your health. The precautions you need to take will depend on the prevailing air quality, your health and how much time you spend outdoors.

• Monitor air quality — Check the National Environment Agency's (NEA) hourly PM2.5 readings and 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index (PSI) before planning outdoor activities.
• Limit outdoor activities — Reduce prolonged or strenuous outdoor activities when air quality deteriorates, particularly if you belong to a vulnerable group.
• Keep indoor air clean — Close windows and doors when outdoor pollution levels are high. If available, use an air purifier with a HEPA filter to reduce indoor particulate matter.
• Wear an appropriate mask — A properly fitted N95 mask can help reduce exposure to fine particles when prolonged outdoor exposure is unavoidable during severe haze. However, N95 masks are generally unnecessary for brief outdoor activities, such as commuting.
• Manage existing health conditions — If you have asthma or another chronic respiratory condition, continue taking your prescribed medication and keep any necessary reliever medication accessible.

When should you see a doctor for haze-related symptoms?

Mild symptoms such as throat irritation, watery eyes or occasional coughing often improve once exposure to haze is reduced. Consider consulting your doctor if you experience:

• Persistent coughing — A cough that does not improve or becomes progressively worse.
• Wheezing or shortness of breath — Difficulty breathing, especially if you have asthma or another respiratory condition.
• Worsening of existing conditions — More frequent asthma symptoms, increased reliance on reliever medication or a noticeable change in your usual breathing.
• Persistent eye irritation — Redness, discomfort or discharge that does not improve despite limiting haze exposure.

Seek emergency medical attention if you experience severe breathing difficulties, significant chest pain, confusion or fainting.

Subsidised haze-related treatment at Phoenix Medical Group

Phoenix Medical Group is a participating clinic under Singapore's Haze Subsidy Scheme, providing eligible patients with access to subsidised medical consultations for qualifying haze-related conditions.

With GP clinics across Singapore, including Seletar, Hillview, Paya Lebar, Novena, Potong Pasir, Thomson, Redhill and Kovan, patients can find a GP near them for medical assessment and treatment.

Our doctors can assess symptoms such as persistent coughing, eye irritation and breathing difficulties, as well as help patients manage existing respiratory conditions that may worsen during periods of haze.

If you are experiencing haze-related symptoms or are unsure whether you qualify for the scheme, contact us to enquire about your eligibility and arrange a consultation. Our clinic staff can advise you on the applicable subsidies and documents required for your visit.

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