Help is there for needy patients

15 Jul 2005, The Straits Times

Question

Name of the Person: Tong Kin Kiang

Help is there for needy patients

Medical Subsidy - Relook referral procedure 

SOME members of my family have glaucoma and as the problem could be hereditary I was advised to consult an eye specialist. 

In order to enjoy a medical subsidy, I asked a government polyclinic doctor for a referral. Initially, he was reluctant to refer me but he relented when I insisted. 

The eye specialist at Alexandra Hospital confirmed that I had close-angle glaucoma, which could lead to blindness if not treated. 

My experience in getting a referral letter raises the following issues: What are the criteria for referrals? It appears that referrals are controlled so as not to overwhelm the hospitals. I was told that I could get a referral via a private practitioner or ophthalmologist. If this is indeed the case, referrals would seem to be commercially driven rather than capacity driven. What are the criteria for one to enjoy a subsidy at specialist clinics? One of the current criteria is that one must be referred by a polyclinic. 

The referral procedure could result in a well-off Singaporean enjoying subsidised rates if he had consulted a polyclinic doctor. On the other hand, a poor Singaporean may end up paying non-subsidised rates if he had availed himself of free consultation with his company doctor in private practice. 

I hope the authorities can provide some explanation and perhaps review the referral procedure.

Reply

Reply from MOH 

In "Relook referral procedure (6 Jul)", Mr Tong asked on how could one enjoy subsidised rates at Specialist Outpatient Clinics (SOC). 

As resources are limited, we need to focus government subsidies for healthcare services, including specialist outpatient treatment. We note Mr Tong's point that there could be further refinements to the referral system. We would like to assure him that any patient who faces genuine financial difficulty in paying his bill, can apply for subsidised treatment. In such an instance, a medical social worker will assess his circumstances and render appropriate financial assistance. 

The Ministry will continue to monitor and review the referral process, to ensure that needy Singaporeans obtain appropriate assistance.