Including Accredited TCM Clinics in the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS)

Mr Don Wee asked the Minister for Health whether the Ministry will consider including accredited TCM clinics in the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) as more senior citizens are seeking treatment from these clinics.

The Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) enables Singaporeans to access affordable and essential primary care services, through the provision of subsidies for medical and dental care at participating general practitioner and dental clinics, such as the treatment of chronic conditions under the Chronic Disease Management Programme.

Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) plays a complementary role in our healthcare system and there are currently no plans to extend CHAS subsidies to TCM clinics. The Ministry of Health (MOH) supports TCM development through various ways, including funding and support for TCM capability development, continuing education and research. Charitable TCM establishments with Institution of Public Character (IPC) status also benefit from tax exemption and are eligible to receive tax deductible donations, which help them to provide affordable TCM services in the community.