Spirometry
A Spirometry test evaluates how effectively your lungs are functioning.
The test serves multiple purposes in helping to diagnose lung conditions such as chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) and asthma,
assess an individual's current lung function, and monitor the effectiveness of treatment for respiratory conditions.
Do I need a doctor's referral?
Yes.
Where can I go for the spirometry test?
NHG Diagnostics Centres that provide spirometry service
How can I book an appointment for spirometry?
How do I book an appointment for spirometry?
Go to Book Spirometry Appointment.
What must I prepare before going for my spirometry test?
24 hours before the test:
- Stop taking medications* as advised by your doctor or nurse
Have a good night's sleep
8 hours before the test:
- Do not drink alcohol
1 hour before the test:
- Do not smoke
- Wear comfortable, loose clothes that do not restrict the movement of your chest
Do I need a doctor's referral for spirometry?
Yes, you need a referral form/memo from a registered medical practitioner.
Who should go for a spirometry test?
Spirometry is a breathing test that measures how well the lungs work. It helps in the diagnosis of asthma, Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) and other conditions that affect breathing.
It is recommended for:
- Smokers above 40 years old
- Ex-smokers
- Asthmatics
- People with chronic coughs or episodes of wheezing or dyspnoea (breathlessness)
- People whose jobs expose them to respiratory irritants such as fumes and dust
Do I have to pay if I want a duplicate copy of my report, film or CD?
Yes, you will be charged for any duplicate copy of your report, film or CD.
What are the services provided in your different locations?
Please refer to our NHG Diagnostics Service Locations.
Can I request for X-ray or lab tests without seeing a doctor?
Due to Ministry of Health requirements, you need a referral from a registered medical practitioner for all tests, except mammogram.
You can request for a mammogram without a doctor's referral if you are eligible for screening under the Screen For Life programme.
What are your opening hours?
For the opening hours of our centres, please refer to our NHG Diagnostics Service Locations.
Do I have to book an appointment for my test?
Yes, you need to book an appointment for these tests:
- BMD
- mammogram
- spirometry
- ultrasound
To book, go to Appointment Info.
You don't need to book an appointment for X-ray, laboratory tests or ECG.
Do I need to fast before my appointment?
It depends on what test you are going for. Please contact your doctor to find out the requirements for your test.
Can I use my MediSave for my tests at your centre?
Yes, you can use your MediSave if you meet the eligibility guidelines by the Ministry of Health. You can approach our staff during your visit to find out more.
What do I need to bring for my appointment?
Bring your identity card, your doctor's referral form (where applicable) and any relevant documents.
Important: If you are using inhalers or bronchodilator medications, please review the medication preparation instructions in the Spirometry Patient Information Brochure before your appointment.
What must I prepare before a spirometry test?
24 hours before the test
- Stop taking medications* as advised by your doctor or nurse
Have a good night's sleep
- To get the most accurate results, do not take any of these inhaled or oral medications before your spirometry test.
8 hours before the test
- Do not drink alcohol
2 hours before test
- Do not eat a large meal
- Do not engage in strenuous exercise
1 hour before the test
- Do not smoke
- Wear comfortable, loose clothes that do not restrict the movement of your chest
What must I bring on that day?
- Your identity card, work pass or passport
- Your doctor's referral form that contains:
- Your personal particulars
- Name, MCR and signature of referring doctor
- Clinic name, address, contact number and stamp
- Test(s) to be performed
- Your personal particulars
What is the procedure like?
- Your height and weight will be measured.
- Sit upright for the test.
- Take a deep breath and exhale hard and fast into a mouthpiece until you can't exhale anymore.
- Repeat the same test a few times to ensure consistent results, if needed.
- A bronchodilator challenge test (Post Test) may be performed upon your doctor's request.
- The whole procedure takes 20 to 45 minutes.
How do I make payment?
Credit cards (Masters/VISA), PayNow and NETS are preferred.
How do I collect my report?
You can collect your test result within 15 minutes.
