ST reported that more patients have enrolled in the Family Physician (FP) scheme launched by the polyclinics to better manage chronic diseases. Patients under the FP scheme are treated by senior doctors and enjoy shorter queue time. They are also treated all through by the same doctor. In general, patients need to pay between $8.50 and $14.60 extra in consultation fees. Although it costs more per consultation, more patients are willing to see such family physicians at the polyclinics. In 2005, SingHealth Polyclinics had seen 289 patients and the figure had increased to 19,012 last year. For the increased consultation fee, FP patients spend a longer time with their family physicians and other health-care professionals. The fees charged are still at subsidised rates and patients also get subsidies for medication and laboratory tests.