Higher MediSave Withdrawal Limit for Outpatient Care Treatment for Patients with Complex Chronic Conditions

23 Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim asked the Minister for Health given the increasing cost of living and other expenses, whether the Ministry will consider raising the MediSave withdrawal limit for outpatient care treatment for the period of one calendar year, especially for patients with complex chronic conditions.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The current MediSave withdrawal limits are adequate for the vast majority of patients with conditions under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP). In 2021, about nine in 10 patients with complex chronic conditions who withdrew MediSave under CDMP did not reach the annual $700 limit. Similarly, about nine in 10 patients with simple chronic conditions did not reach the annual $500 limit. Nevertheless, patients who face difficulties paying for their medical bills may apply for financial assistance, such as MediFund, at public healthcare institutions.

MOH will continue to review our financing schemes regularly, taking into account any rise in healthcare costs, so that healthcare remains affordable for Singaporeans.