Increasing Cap on MediSave Withdrawals for Mental Health Patients and Waiver of 15% Co-payment for MediSave Claims

Ms Nadia Ahmad Samdin asked the Minister for Health (a) whether the Government will consider increasing the cap on MediSave withdrawals for mental health patients seeking treatment for conditions listed under the Chronic Disease Management Programme; and (b) whether there are circumstances where the Government will consider lowering or waiving the 15% co-payment for MediSave claims for these patients.

Patients can use up to $500 or $700 a year from their MediSave for the treatment of mental health conditions under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP), depending on the complexity of their condition. In 2021, about nine in 10 of all patients who withdrew MediSave under the CDMP did not reach their annual $500 or $700 limits. These limits therefore remain adequate.

Under Healthier SG, the 15% co-payment requirement will be waived when patients use MediSave for CDMP treatment at the clinic they enrol with. As always, patients who face difficulties paying for their medical bills may also apply for financial assistance such as MediFund at public healthcare institutions.