24 private healthcare institutions selected to administer Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines: MOH

The Ministry of Health (MOH) has selected 24 private healthcare institutions to administer the Government’s existing stock of Sinovac COVID-19 vaccines to Singapore citizens, permanent residents and long-term pass holders.

In a statement on Wednesday (16 June), MOH noted that the applications were reviewed based on the providers’ ability to administer the vaccines safely, properly and efficiently.

Other considerations include the providers’ proposed vaccination administration fees, experience in vaccine administration, and its compliance history at past licensing inspections.

“As these vaccines are being provided to the providers at no cost, individuals should take note that the providers should not charge them for the vaccine cost,” it stated.

According to the Ministry’s list of selected private healthcare institutions, the fees for a single dose of Sinovac vaccine ranges from S$10 to S$25.

MOH added that the vaccination administration fees listed is also inclusive of consultation and 7 per cent GST.

Hence, there should not be any additional costs (beyond the vaccination administration fees listed) charged by these providers, it noted.

Those interested in receiving the Sinovac vaccine may contact the providers directly from 18 June for more details on how they may receive the vaccine.

However, MOH highlighted that the Sinovac COVID-19 vaccine “remains unregistered” and is not authorised by the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) for use under the Pandemic Special Access Route, adding that the vaccines are only provided under the SAR framework.

“Hence will not be covered under the Vaccine Injury Financial Assistance Programme (VIFAP) meant for our national vaccination programme,” it stated.

“Individuals who nevertheless wish to receive Sinovac-CoronaVac vaccinations under the SAR framework should discuss with their doctors in the selected private healthcare institutions the risks and benefits of using the Sinovac-CoronaVac vaccine, and jointly make an informed decision.”