Saturday 23 August 2014

Higher subsidies, Pioneer Generation benefits at Specialist Outpatient Clinics





Channel NewsAsia, 22 Aug 2014

Starting Sep 1, lower- to middle-income Singaporeans can get higher subsidies of 70 per cent and 60 per cent respectively for subsidised treatment at Specialist Outpatient Clinics (SOCs) at public hospitals. This is up from the current subsidy of 50 per cent, said a joint-news release from the Ministry of Health (MOH) and Ministry of Finance (MOF).

For people already receiving subsidies treatment at SOCs - those with valid Health Assist cards need not apply and will receive the higher subsidies automatically.

Application forms for higher subsidies were sent to patients who do not have valid Health Assist cards earlier this month, MOH says. Eligible Singaporeans can also apply by filling in the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) application form available at any public hospital, polyclinic, community centres, or online at www.chas.sg.

From September as well, Pioneer Generation Singaporeans will automatically enjoy an additional 50 per cent off subsidised services, on top of the higher subsidies. This is part of the Pioneer Generation Package which also includes additional subsidies for polyclinic services, as well as private general practitioner and dental clinics on CHAS.

From Jan 2015, pioneers will also be able to get an additional 50 per cent off for subsidised medication at the polyclinics and subsidised SOCs.

Senior Minister of State for Health Dr Amy Khor said the enhanced subsidies are meant to give Singaporeans greater peace of mind and assurance over the affordability of healthcare bills. She was speaking on the sidelines of a visit to Tan Tock Seng Hospital, to observe the training of frontline healthcare staff. 

No comments:

Post a Comment