Debated in Parliament on 18 Sep 2023.
Mr Shawn Huang Wei Zhong asked the Minister for Health (a) whether the current MediSave withdrawal limit remains adequate for outpatient care, especially for patients with complex chronic conditions; and (b) if not, whether the Ministry will consider raising the withdrawal limit.
The response will also cover the matters raised in the oral question by Mr Sharael Taha1 scheduled for a subsequent Sitting.
Under the MediSave500/700 scheme, Singaporeans can withdraw up to $500 or $700 annually, depending on the complexity of their conditions, from their own or family members' MediSave. The scheme covers the treatment of 23 approved conditions under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP). In addition, patients who are 60 and above can withdraw a further $300 from their own or spouse's Flexi-MediSave every year. The current limits are adequate to meet the needs of nine in 10 patients.
From early 2024, Singaporeans who enroll in Healthier SG no longer need to co-pay 15% of their bill in cash. They can use their MediSave to fully pay for the treatment of their CDMP conditions at their Healthier SG clinics up to the prevailing MediSave limit. Patients who face difficulties with their medical bills may apply for financial assistance at public healthcare institutions.
MOH regularly reviews the list of CDMP conditions and the MediSave500/700 limits to ensure these strike a balance between keeping immediate treatments affordable for Singaporeans and preserving MediSave for their future healthcare needs. Should the member come across cases that need additional assistance, do let us know and we will see how best to help.
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