Proposal for Insurance Coverage for Mental Illnesses

58 Mr Saktiandi Supaat asked the Minister for Health (a) whether the Government can explore the provision of insurance coverage for mental illnesses; and (b) what financial support is available for mental health patients when they are unable to work for a prolonged period of time.

Mr Gan Kim Yong: Singaporeans with mental illnesses are receiving funding support for their treatments. In 2013, MediShield was enhanced to cover inpatient treatment of psychiatric conditions so as to support the timely and appropriate treatment of mental illnesses. This health insurance coverage remains under MediShield Life today.

Government subsidies are also available to patients receiving inpatient and outpatient mental health treatments and consultations at public healthcare institutions. For Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) cardholders, subsidies are provided for outpatient consultations at CHAS general practitioner (GP) clinics.

Patients who need to pay for the balance of their fees after Government subsidies and MediShield Life can use their MediSave. Under the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP), MediSave may be used for the outpatient treatment of bipolar disorders, schizophrenia, depression and anxiety. Seniors can further tap on Flexi-MediSave for their outpatient treatment. Those who cannot afford their treatments even after subsidies, MediShield Life and MediSave can approach the medical social workers for MediFund assistance.

Some Singaporeans with mental illnesses may require financial assistance that extend beyond their treatments. They can apply for such assistance under ComCare through the Social Service Offices. Depending on the needs and circumstances of the individuals, the ComCare package could include cash and other types of assistance, such as utilities charges and housing rental fees. Individuals who have permanent mental incapacity can also apply for early Central Provident Fund withdrawal under the Medical Grounds Scheme.