4 Mar 2026
Committee of Supply Debate 2026, Ministry of Health
I repeat my call for MOH to expand coverage for all chronic diseases under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP), and not just 23 approved conditions. This would ensure any condition requiring long term management can be subsidised under CHAS and paid for via MediSave.
Even for conditions on the CDMP list, the MediSave 500/700 withdrawal limits can be restrictive. I last raised this issue in 2021 and the Senior Minister of State argued that the risk of over consumption necessitates these caps. However, how does this apply to public healthcare institutions where salaried doctors follow strict protocols?
The real risk is not over consumption, but under treatment. When patients are forced to choose between their cash and their care, some may choose to skip medications or appointments to save money. Self rationing today can lead to a massive bill tomorrow for an emergency hospitalisation. This is a tremendous cost to both individual patients and the healthcare system. Has the Ministry assessed the clinical cost of medical non-compliance caused by rigid MediSave withdrawal limits?
Singaporeans want to be self reliant and not have to appeal for subsidies or medical assistance. The Ministry should allow more flexible MediSave withdrawals at public healthcare institutions for patients over 60, especially for those with significant MediSave balances.
Tag: Medisave
Use of Medisave (COS – MOH)
The restrictions on Medisave withdrawals sometimes result in patients facing financial difficulties even though they still have balances in their Medisave accounts.
Parliament, 12 March 2014
Madam,
The restrictions on Medisave withdrawals sometimes result in patients facing financial difficulties even though they still have balances in their Medisave accounts.
Medisave should be allowed for all medically necessary treatment that is of proven value and is cost effective. MOH should greatly expand the list of approved outpatient treatments under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP). While 15 chronic diseases are now in the list, there are many others which are not, but which require long-term medication and frequent consultations, which can be very costly.
The expanded Medisave withdrawal list should be updated regularly by an independent panel consisting of doctors and healthcare researchers.
In addition, patients above age 75 should be allowed to use their Medisave without being subject to annual limits. This will ensure that they are not deterred from seeking treatment because of high cash payments.