Before you go
Getting into the system faster comes down to preparation. Doctors at polyclinics see a high volume of patients and have limited time. The clearer you are about what you are experiencing, the more likely you are to receive an appropriate referral.
Prepare these before your appointment:
- A brief written note (2–3 sentences) describing what you have been experiencing and for how long. You do not need to have a diagnosis. "For the past three months I have been feeling persistently low, unable to enjoy things I used to, and sleeping poorly" is enough.
- Any previous mental health history — prior diagnoses, medications, therapy
- Your NRIC and CHAS card if you have one
- A list of any current medications
Step 1: Book the polyclinic appointment
Book online via HealthHub (app or healthhub.sg) or call your polyclinic directly.
When booking, select "General Appointment" — you do not need to specify mental health, though you can note it in the remarks if available.
Tip: Book at a polyclinic near your home. If you need follow-up care, proximity makes attendance easier.
Step 2: At the appointment — what to say
This is the most important step. Many people understate their symptoms in a clinical setting, which can result in a lower level of care than they need.
Say clearly: "I have been struggling with my mental health and I would like a referral to a psychiatrist or psychologist."
If the GP asks you to describe your symptoms, be specific and honest. Use numbers if helpful: "I have been feeling like this for about four months. My sleep has been affected most nights. My concentration at work has dropped significantly."
If you have completed the Clarity Check, bring your scores. PHQ-9 and GAD-7 scores are clinically recognised and will carry weight with the GP.
Step 3: The referral
If the GP agrees a referral is appropriate, they will refer you to the specialist outpatient clinic (SOC) at a restructured hospital. You will receive:
- A referral letter
- An appointment date (usually by post or SMS within 1–2 weeks)
- Information on the subsidised rate
The wait for a first SOC appointment is typically 4–8 weeks. If symptoms worsen while you are waiting, return to the polyclinic — they can escalate the urgency of the referral.
Step 4: Before your specialist appointment
When you receive your appointment:
- Confirm the date and location
- Prepare a clear account of your history — onset, symptoms, what has helped or not helped, any family history of mental health conditions
- Bring your referral letter, NRIC, and a list of any medications
If the GP does not refer you
This happens. If you believe you need a referral and are not getting one:
- Ask directly: "Can you explain why a referral is not appropriate at this stage?"
- Request to see a different GP at the same polyclinic
- Visit a different polyclinic
You can also refer yourself directly to IMH. Walk-in to the IMH A&E at Buangkok View. You will be triaged and assessed. This is appropriate if symptoms are severe or you cannot wait for the standard referral pathway.
Emergency route
If you are in crisis and cannot wait:
- IMH A&E: 10 Buangkok View, open 24 hours
- Any hospital A&E can provide initial psychiatric assessment in a crisis
- Call IMH helpline: 6389 2222 (24 hours)