MediShield Life coverage before 1 November 2015

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Lim Biow Chuan

MP for Mountbatten SMC

Question No. 181

To ask the Minister for Health whether patients in hospitals as at 1 November 2015 are able to claim for benefits under MediShield Life even though they were warded in hospitals before MediShield Life took effect on that date.

Oral Reply

1.    MediShield Life coverage is applicable for patients who were admitted on or after 1 November 2015. Individuals with existing MediShield coverage who were admitted before 1 November 2015 will continue to receive benefits under the old MediShield. This approach is consistent with the approach taken in past MediShield enhancements and provides a clear transition at the start of MediShield Life. This was communicated in MOH’s various publicity materials, including booklets on MediShield Life sent to each household.

2.    Significant government subsidies of up to 80% are also available for those who use subsidised treatment in public hospitals. Patients can also tap on Medisave for their share of the healthcare bills.

3.    Patients who face financial difficulties can approach the Medical Social Workers at the public hospitals for assistance, such as tapping on Medifund.