Polyclinic super long wait, when is it better to just pay for a GP?

Long-time polyclinic and GP user, here is my rule of thumb. Polyclinic makes sense when: you need the subsidy (chronic meds, referrals to specialists at subsidised rates, vaccinations, health screening), or your condition is not urgent and you can book ahead, because they now have appointment systems that cut the wait a lot compared to walk-in. For chronic disease management (diabetes, hypertension, cholesterol) the polyclinic with CHAS and MediSave under CDMP is genuinely cheaper long-term, worth the occasional wait. Private GP makes sense when: you are acutely sick and just want to be seen fast and get an MC for work, minor infections, coughs, flu, where the private consult is quick and the price difference is small once you factor your time. For a working adult, three hours of your day often costs more than the extra GP fee. My practical split: chronic follow-ups and referrals at polyclinic (book appointment, don't walk in blindly), acute quick stuff at the neighbourhood GP, especially CHAS-accredited ones where you still get some subsidy. Also seniors and CHAS cardholders get meaningful subsidies at participating GPs, so check your card, you may not need to queue at polyclinic at all.