Clarification of Pioneer Generation healthcare subsidies

Zao Bao, 28 October 2014

MOH's reply (Translated in English)

Mr Zhong Bao Hua (“Healthcare subsidies for Pioneer Generation”, ZB, 17 Oct) asked if Pioneer Generation members who are holders of the CHAS Blue/Orange Health Assist card can receive both CHAS and Pioneer Generation benefits together.

We would like to clarify that Pioneer Generation members are eligible for higher subsidies than what non-Pioneers in the same circumstances can get.  Pioneers enjoy these benefits for life. 

In the Specialist Outpatient Clinics, on top of what all Singaporeans who hold the Blue/Orange Health Assist cards receive, Pioneers who had previously applied for the Blue/Orange Health Assist card now receive an additional 50% off. At CHAS GP or dental clinics, all Pioneers enjoy the same, special subsidies once they present their Pioneer Generation card, which are higher than what non-Pioneers with Health Assist cards enjoy.  The PG card and benefits therefore supercede those from the Health Assist card. 

Lim Bee Khim

Director, Corporate Communications

Ministry of Health

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Zao Bao, 17 October 2014

Healthcare subsidies for Pioneer Generation (Translated in English)

Mr Zhong Bao Hua commented that although it has been about one month since the issuance of the Pioneer Generation Card, the general public is still unclear about the card’s uses. Zhong elaborated on his personal experience at the NTUC dental clinic, where he went for a crown implantation procedure. The receipt reflected that Pioneer Generation card holders would be able to enjoy $137.50 subsidy off the total bill of $695.50, which he did. In addition, Zhong is an orange Health Assist card holder. In response to that, the NTUC staff said that Zhong could not receive additional subsidy for his dental bill. Zhong sought to clarify with the authorities on whether Pioneers who were blue or orange Health Assist card holders could receive both Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) and Pioneer Generation subsidies in one setting.