The Ministry of Health (MOH) may need to consider implementing surge capacity for selected treatments as more individuals migrate from private healthcare to public hospitals. This shift follows significant changes to the Integrated Shield Plan (IP) regime announced by Health Minister Ong Ye Kung on 12 January 2024.
Integrated Shield Plan Changes
Ong highlighted that new riders sold from April 1, 2024, will no longer allow coverage for minimum deductibles, increasing the co-payment cap for these riders from S$3,000 to S$6,000. He acknowledged the growing trend of patients opting for subsidised healthcare, driven largely by rising private healthcare costs.
Impact on Healthcare Utilisation
As the shift towards public healthcare becomes more pronounced, MOH is preparing for potential challenges. Ong mentioned, “If need be, we may need to implement surge capacity for selected treatments.” This proactive approach aims to ensure that public health facilities can handle increased demand.
Monitoring and Capacity Expansion
- MOH is closely monitoring the effects of these policy changes.
- Efforts are underway to expand public health capacity, including both hospital beds and outpatient services.
- The government is responding to concerns about wait times and healthcare accessibility.
Goals of the Policy Changes
The adjustments to the Integrated Shield Plan are intended to slow the migration of patients from the private sector. Ong described the previous health insurance coverage from IP riders as “overly generous,” contributing significantly to rising costs. By making these policy revisions, the ministry aims to restore confidence in health insurance, directing it towards covering larger, infrequent bills rather than routine expenses.
Conclusion
Ong Ye Kung reassured Singaporeans that the interests of policyholders are protected and that MOH is closely collaborating with the Monetary Authority of Singapore to ensure sustainable health insurance practices. The ministry’s objective remains clear: to maintain the viability of both private and public healthcare systems amid evolving patient behaviours.