In his Budget 2019 Statement, the Minister for Finance, Mr Heng Swee Keat affirms the Government will continue to strengthen support to the healthcare needs of Singaporeans. The Government also wants to help Seniors stay active, healthy and engaged in their silver years.
Key announcements in Budget 2019 that affect healthcare at a glance
Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) to be enhanced
CHAS subsidies at GP clinics to be enhanced in 3 ways:
- All Singaporeans will be covered by CHAS for chronic conditions, regardless of income.
- CHAS orange cardholders will now be extended subsidies to cover for common illnesses. Currently, orange cardholders are only covered for chronic conditions.
- Subsidies for complex chronic conditions will be increased.
CHAS makes it possible for more Singaporeans to visit clinics near their homes to manage their chronic conditions. The Minister of Health will provide more details on these changes at the COS. See table below for the complete list of Common Illnesses, Chronic Conditions and Dental Services that are covered by CHAS subsidies.
A 5.1b Long Term Care Support Fund to be set up
A 5.1b Long Term Care Support Fund will be set up to help fund CareShield Life subsidies and long term care support measures, such as Elderfund. This enables the Government to provide greater healthcare assurance and financial protection for long term care.
A Merdeka Generation Package consisting of financial top ups to Medisave and Passion Silver cards
The Merkeka Generation(Singaporeans born in the 1950s) played a critical role in building our nation and was amongst the first batches to serve in the National Service(NS) and Public Services.
- All Merdeka Generation Seniors to receive a one-time top up of $100 to their Passion Silver cards to support and promote their active lifestyles.
- They will also receive a Medisave top up of $200 a year for 5 years.
- Merdeka Generation Seniors will also receive additional subsidies for common illnesses, chronic conditions and dental procedures.
- The Government will also give additional participation incentive of $1,500 for Merdeka Generation Seniors when they join CareShield Life, when it becomes available in 2021.
- Merdeka Generation Seniors will enjoy additional MediShield Life subsidies, for life.
MediSave top up for Singaporeans aged 50 and above who don’t qualify for Merdeka or Pioneer Generation benefits
- A Medisave top up of $100 a year for the next 5 years for Singaporeans aged 50 and above in 2019, who do not receive the Merdeka or Pioneer Generation benefits.
ComCare Long Term Assistance Scheme
The ComCare Long Term Assistance Scheme provides basic monthly cash assistance to those who are permanently unable to work and with little family support, to support their living expenses.
More support will be available for households with additional medical needs. More details will be given by the Minister for Social and Family Development at COS.
If you found this article helpful, we recommend reading The Silver Lining Subsidies: Daily Living and Outpatient and What is COPD?
Award winning Home Care trusted by health professionals – Jaga-Me
