Medishield life at a glance

What is MediShield Life?

A compulsory, basic health insurance scheme for large subsidised hospital bills. It will replace the existing MediShield.

Who will be covered?

All Singaporeans and permanent residents, including those with pre-existing conditions not covered by MediShield.

What are the differences between MediShield Life and MediShield?

Under MediShield Life, the claim limits for hospital bills and outpatient cancer treatments - like chemotherapy - are higher.

There is also no lifetime claim limit.

How much will MediShield Life premiums cost?

The Health Ministry's website has a calculator with which you can work out an estimate of your premium, after subsidies. It is at www.medishieldlife.sg/calculator. Those with serious pre-existing conditions will pay premiums that are 30 per cent higher, for 10 years.

What kind of subsidies will the Government provide?

1. Transitional subsidies for all citizens. These will be phased out after four years.

2. Permanent subsidies for lower- and middle-income households. The amount varies, depending on the household's monthly per capita income and the annual value of its residence.

3. Pioneer Generation subsidies and annual Medisave top-ups for Singaporeans aged 65 or older in 2014 and who became citizens before 1987.

These subsidies are for all Pioneer Generation members, regardless of income.

This article was first published on Jan 20, 2015.
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