MEANS testing for admissions to hospitals will take on a simpler approach, unlike the current system used to determine subsidies for step-down care, said Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan.

The test will only take into account the individual's income - unlike the one in place now for step-down care where children's income and bank balances are considered.

For the economically inactive, like housewives, children and retirees, their type of housing will be used as a yardstick to determine the amount of subsidy they can receive.

Mr Khaw said this is a purist approach that is simpler compared to the current system used to determine subsidies for step-down care.

With means testing, patients will still be able to choose the ward class want. But the rich will receive less subsidy than the poor.

Mr Khaw did not say when means testing will be implemented.

He was speaking to reporters on Monday evening at a health event at Changi General Hospital.