SINGAPORE — In a significant parliamentary sitting on 11 November 2024, important legislative changes were approved, including the expansion of the MediShield Life coverage and the introduction of new anti-scam measures.
MediShield Life Scheme Amendments
The MediShield Life Scheme (Amendment) Bill aims to broaden the coverage for outpatient treatments, especially for mental health, community care, and home-based treatments. This move follows recommendations from the MediShield Life Council to help Singaporeans tackle rising medical costs.
- Expanded coverage to include medical services outside physical healthcare settings.
- Increased claim limits and improved administration processes.
- A new “claimable medical treatment” definition ensures protections for MediShield Life Fund.
Minister of State for Health Rahayu Mahzam highlighted that with the modifications, patients will have better access to innovative treatments while also improving the fund’s sustainability.
Financial Implications
Currently, there are concerns regarding the potential rise in premiums—estimated up to 35 per cent—to be phased in from April 2025 through March 2028. MPs raised important questions about how these changes might impact lower-income patients.
- Some residents may face cash flow challenges due to new deductibles.
- Policies will remain available for those struggling to pay their premiums, with support mechanisms in place.
Anti-Scam Measures Proposed
Simultaneously, the Protection from Scams Bill has also been introduced, giving police the authority to impose restrictions on bank transactions for individuals reasonably believed to be potential scam victims.
Key features of the proposed Bill include:
- Empowering police to block transactions across various banking platforms.
- Aiming to respond to the surge in scam incidents, with 86 per cent of reported scams in early 2024 due to voluntary transfers by victims.
This legislation may position Singapore as the first nation to grant such powers to law enforcement, representing a proactive stance in combating financial fraud.
Reiterating Support for Vulnerable Groups
In response to worries regarding rising costs and means-testing, the government reassured Parliament that no Singaporean would be denied necessary healthcare due to financial constraints. Policies will continue to adapt to meet the needs of the populace, especially those who are asset-rich but cash-poor.