In a health-centric initiative, Singapore residents aged 40 and above can now exchange Healthpoints from the Health Promotion Board’s (HPB) Healthy 365 mobile app for discounts on their MediShield Life premiums. Announced on 18 September 2024 by the Ministry of Health (MOH), this programme is part of a three-year pilot aimed at promoting preventive health through the Healthier SG initiative.
Details of the Discount Programme
According to MOH, MediShield Life policyholders in this age group can redeem discounts at a conversion rate of 150 Healthpoints for S$2, doubling the usual rate of 150 Healthpoints for S$1. This means that if a resident engages in healthy activities, accumulating enough points, they could save significantly on their insurance premiums.
- Residents need to average about 150 minutes of moderate to vigorous physical activity weekly for a year.
- Earned Healthpoints can be redeemed for discounts automatically applied at the next annual policy renewal.
- The maximum value of cumulative Healthpoints one can earn in a calendar year is equivalent to S$270, with potential premium discounts totaling S$540.
Health Minister’s Remarks
Health Minister Ong Ye Kung expressed that this initiative not only rewards participants for maintaining a healthy lifestyle but is also a proactive measure against costly medical treatments later on. In a social media post, he remarked, “Taking steps to adopt a healthier lifestyle is something that all of us can choose to do.” He encouraged residents to achieve maximum rewards with simple daily activities, like a brisk 20-minute walk.
More About the Healthy 365 App
The Healthy 365 app is a tool for users to track their health and engage in various programmes. Aside from earning Healthpoints, participants can redeem points for vouchers at places like FairPrice and Kopitiam or complete exercise challenges that translate steps into points.
This initiative is especially timely as MediShield Life premiums are expected to rise due to increased claims limits and coverage expansion, making this health incentive even more valuable for Singaporeans.
For further information about the HPB’s Healthy 365 app and the discounts, visit the Health Promotion Board’s website.