"Through this collaboration we hope to be able to work in partnership with doctors in Bangladesh," said Prof Tan Ser Kiat, group chief executive of SingHealth, at a press conference at a city hotel.

Setting up the 'SingHealth-Galaxy' office in Dhaka is aimed at deepening and broadening the existing clinical collaborations between doctors in Bangladesh and those from SingHealth institutions, said the organisers.

Replying to a question whether SingHealth would set up any hospital in Bangladesh or join hands with any Bangladeshi hospital, Prof Tan Ser Kiat said that they would actively consider the issue if they get such a proposal.

He said that Bangladeshi patients are among top ten overseas patient groups visiting SingHealth hospitals.

He also said that they had selected Bangladesh as the first country where they would launch privilege cards for the patients.

A cardholder would be entitled to various benefits such as discounts for health screening packages and a complimentary sleeper bed for an accompanying relative, he added.

SingHealth-Galaxy office would also collaborate in the co-management of patients, who may be referred to its institutions for treatment that might not be available in Bangladesh, said the organisers.

Chief Executive Officer of Galaxy Healthcare Services Wahid Ahmed Yusuf, Chairman of Medical Board of SingHealth Prof Tay Boon Keng and Group Business Director Edward Oh were also present.