Review of MediSave Withdrawal Limits to Pay for Private Medical Insurance in Light of Premium Increases

37 Ms Hazlina Abdul Halim asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health given the sustained medical inflation over the past decade and in light of recent MediShield Life benefit enhancements and premium increases (a) when will the MediSave withdrawal limits for private medical insurance premiums be reviewed to ensure adequate coverage; and (b) what indicators will be used to assess their adequacy.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: MediSave is a national savings scheme designed to support basic healthcare needs. As such, premiums of our national health insurance scheme, such as MediShield Life, are fully payable by MediSave. As Integrated Shield Plans (IP) are optional, commercial products that provide additional coverage for unsubsidised care, MediSave use for IP premiums are capped by the Additional Withdrawal Limits (AWLs).

In considering enhancements to the AWLs, we would need to strike a balance between allowing Singaporeans to use more of their MediSave for private insurance while ensuring that they preserve adequate MediSave for other basic healthcare needs in the future.

Should individuals face challenges with the rising private insurance premiums, they are encouraged to consult their financial advisors to review their private health insurance coverage, taking into account their healthcare needs, care preferences and financial affordability.