Subsidised Drugs for Treating Depression and Anxiety

Mr Leon Perera asked the Minister for Health whether the number of drugs being subsidised for medicating depression and anxiety can be expanded, so that psychiatrists can have a wider range of treatments to choose from, for their patients.

MOH provides subsidies for a list of drugs that are assessed by the Drug Advisory Committee (DAC) to be clinically-effective and cost-effective following evaluation by the Agency for Care Effectiveness (ACE). The DAC regularly reviews the list to ensure that it stays relevant to local population needs, medical practice and evidence on clinical and cost effectiveness. Clinicians in Public Healthcare Institutions (PHIs) also submit recommendations for further drugs to be evaluated by ACE for DAC’s consideration for subsidy coverage, so that the list continues to be relevant and up to date.

Singaporeans who have difficulty coping with their medical bills can apply through medical social workers in PHIs for additional MediFund support, including for non-standard drugs, where clinically appropriate.