Health Ministry urges uninsured Singaporeans to apply for Medishield coverage

SINGAPORE: The Ministry of Health is encouraging eligible, uninsured Singaporeans to apply for Medishield coverage.

It said 35 per cent of elderly Singaporeans aged 76 to 85 are currently not insured under the scheme, compared to only 8 per cent for the general population.

Health Minister Gan Kim Yong said his ministry is reaching out through events like public talks run by the Central Provident Fund Board.

The ministry is also encouraging children to apply for Medishield coverage on behalf of their elderly parents.

"Beyond MediShield, the elderly can also receive help for their health care costs. All elderly Singaporeans will continue to enjoy government subsidies of up to 80 per cent for subsidised health care treatment at our public health care institutions, regardless of their insured status. Under the GST Voucher scheme, the government will also provide annual Medisave top—ups for the majority of elderly Singaporeans to help with medical expenses," he said.

— CNA/de