Thursday, March 7, 2024

REACH 548 -  What are your thoughts on the proposed enhancements of MediShield Life to strengthen healthcare assurance amidst rising healthcare costs? 

(SK)

07 Mar 2024 (10am - 7pm)


REACH

7/3/24, 9:45 am - +REACH: *Dear Contributors,*

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7/3/24, 10:00 am - +REACH: 📢 *Topic* 📢

The MediShield Life insurance plan is being reviewed to ensure healthcare remains accessible and affordable amid rising costs, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung announced on Wednesday (Mar 6). 

The proposed changes will better protect subsidised patients against major health episodes, said Minister Ong, adding that MediShield Life premiums will inevitably go up.

💬 *What are your thoughts on the proposed enhancements of MediShield Life to strengthen healthcare assurance amidst rising healthcare costs?*

Minister Ong said that with technological advancement, new treatments may work better but often cost more. Inflation has also gone up around the world in recent years, and that has also affected healthcare costs too.

Bill sizes have grown by 5 per cent annually in public hospitals, and by 7 per cent annually in private hospitals over the last few years.

As a result, the proportion of subsidised bills adequately covered by MediShield Life has come down to around eight out of 10 (against a benchmark of 9 out of 10) and this is expected to continue to slip further.

The MediShield Life Council has already begun the review process and is looking into three key areas.

📌 _*1) Increasing the claim limit*_

First, the council will look into enhancing MediShield Life to give Singaporeans greater assurance against large bills. This means increasing the claim limits – how much a patient can claim from MediShield Life – for both surgical operations and hospital stays.

📌 _*2) Enhancing other outpatient coverage*_

Second, the council will look at enhancing other outpatient coverage. Minister Ong said there is a need to raise the claim limits for treatments such as kidney dialysis to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

The council will also explore extending coverage to more types of outpatient care, including cancer treatments which are some of the most costly outpatient treatments.

The Mobile Inpatient Care-at-Home or MIC@Home is one home-based care service which will be covered by MediShield Life and other schemes and subsidies from Apr 1.

📌 _*3) Expanding coverage to new, groundbreaking therapy*_

Lastly, the council will also consider expanding MediShield Life coverage to new ground-breaking treatments, specifically cell, tissue and gene therapy products, also known as CTGTPs.

CTGTPs are intended for therapeutic, preventive, palliative or diagnostic purposes. 

"Medical science is advancing rapidly, and CTGTPs have the potential to revolutionise healthcare and deliver effective treatment of previously incurable diseases," said Minister Ong.

👉🏻 https://str.sg/66Ny

 👉🏻https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/medishield-life-health-insurance-subsidies-community-hospitals-moh-4174391

7/3/24, 10:01 am - ~ REACH Singapore changed the group description

7/3/24, 10:01 am - ~ REACH Singapore changed this group's settings to allow all members to send messages to this group

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7/3/24, 10:25 am - +Khuan Yew: It’s not a surprise that the premiums have to rise because the Government allowed those with pre-existing conditions to join MediShield Life with the same premiums as the healthy. Those who are already unhealthy will obviously incur greater hospital expenses than those who are healthy. So effectively it is the healthy paying for the costs of the unhealthy. 

While there will be subsidies on the MediShield Life premiums for the low income, without any difference in the premiums paid by those with pre-existing conditions and the healthy, it could mean that the healthy, low income person is effectively paying for the unhealthy, high income person. Is that fair? 

The way MediShield Life was designed was already flawed and now the patchwork is to just increase the premiums.

7/3/24, 10:42 am - +Rama: Premiums may be affordable for millennium but what about seniors earning a measly wage? Government subsidies may not be enough!

7/3/24, 10:59 am - +REACH: *Dear Contributors*

Here is a replacement for the first link!

📢 *Topic* 📢

The MediShield Life insurance plan is being reviewed to ensure healthcare remains accessible and affordable amid rising costs, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung announced on Wednesday (Mar 6). 

The proposed changes will better protect subsidised patients against major health episodes, said Minister Ong, adding that MediShield Life premiums will inevitably go up.

💬 *What are your thoughts on the proposed enhancements of MediShield Life to strengthen healthcare assurance amidst rising healthcare costs?*

Minister Ong said that with technological advancement, new treatments may work better but often cost more. Inflation has also gone up around the world in recent years, and that has also affected healthcare costs too.

Bill sizes have grown by 5 per cent annually in public hospitals, and by 7 per cent annually in private hospitals over the last few years.

As a result, the proportion of subsidised bills adequately covered by MediShield Life has come down to around eight out of 10 (against a benchmark of 9 out of 10) and this is expected to continue to slip further.

The MediShield Life Council has already begun the review process and is looking into three key areas.

📌 _*1) Increasing the claim limit*_

First, the council will look into enhancing MediShield Life to give Singaporeans greater assurance against large bills. This means increasing the claim limits – how much a patient can claim from MediShield Life – for both surgical operations and hospital stays.

📌 _*2) Enhancing other outpatient coverage*_

Second, the council will look at enhancing other outpatient coverage. Minister Ong said there is a need to raise the claim limits for treatments such as kidney dialysis to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

The council will also explore extending coverage to more types of outpatient care, including cancer treatments which are some of the most costly outpatient treatments.

The Mobile Inpatient Care-at-Home or MIC@Home is one home-based care service which will be covered by MediShield Life and other schemes and subsidies from Apr 1.

📌 _*3) Expanding coverage to new, groundbreaking therapy*_

Lastly, the council will also consider expanding MediShield Life coverage to new ground-breaking treatments, specifically cell, tissue and gene therapy products, also known as CTGTPs.

CTGTPs are intended for therapeutic, preventive, palliative or diagnostic purposes. 

"Medical science is advancing rapidly, and CTGTPs have the potential to revolutionise healthcare and deliver effective treatment of previously incurable diseases," said Minister Ong.

👉🏻https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/premiums-for-medishield-life-expected-to-rise-as-govt-looks-to-expand-scheme-s-coverage

 👉🏻https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/medishield-life-health-insurance-subsidies-community-hospitals-moh-4174391

7/3/24, 12:12 pm - +Kenneth Lee WM: I would be interested to find out what are eventual cost increase to individuals.  As mentioned  by others earlier, gov has to recognize that a lot of seniors are on fixed income, cpf life which doesn't increase.

If one takes a step back, one needs to "pay" to be a Singaporean as these costs are compulsory for all Singaporeans. Other countries tax the working class and provide for the seniors.  In Singapore, working class are taxed, as well as seniors.  If one doesn't pay, gov will continue to bill u with interest!  If one really cannot pay, then must go and write to them.  I hope that at the end of the day, those that really cannot pay, gov will write off the premiums. <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 12:15 pm - +Kenneth Lee WM: however, i know of some who take advantage of the situation. there's a tissue seller aunty at dawson, go around telling people sob stories about not having enough money for her operation etc. However, gov is aware of her and is already giving her and her family support when I contacted gov via oneservice.  despite that, she still goes around black mouthing gov. <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 12:17 pm - +Frankie Wee: CPF MA Basic Healthcare Sum mins $71,500

7/3/24, 12:18 pm - +Frankie Wee: Those whom don’t have enough BHS then govt will have subsidies them more for low income

7/3/24, 12:22 pm - +Smiley face: How about upping the MA minimum sum to $100k?

Sooner or later?

7/3/24, 12:24 pm - +Frankie Wee: Omg

7/3/24, 12:24 pm - +Frankie Wee: Very touch to earn

7/3/24, 12:30 pm - +Smiley face: Incremental of 5% YTY....

7/3/24, 12:37 pm - +Frankie Wee: Inflation level couldn’t slow peace

7/3/24, 12:38 pm - +Frankie Wee: Within 10 years time it should be fine

7/3/24, 12:52 pm - +Kenneth Lee WM: one other feedback regarding subsidies. subsidies are all based on a percentage of the actual payment.  We can't control actual costs.  Only MOH can.  if subsidy is 80%, and the actual costs go up, the person eventually pays more despite having 80% subsidy.

Just like property tax, IRAS comes up with some percentage computations etc which sounds very good, then they up the annual value which these percentages are based on and the outcome, property tax is doubled (for non residential properties)!

I hope MOH also focusses on controlling costs of health care so that at the end of the day, the cost increase to the individual is not exorbitant. We can't do very much; we can only accept what comes our way and just trust that MOH does the right thing. <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 1:03 pm - +KL: lol is it not enough money ah or maybe she suffer grieve when younger ?

7/3/24, 1:03 pm - +KL: U know some bad blood are plant when young. Really maybe is an issue but too late in rectified. These type is the hardest to resolve one . <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 1:06 pm - +KL: Of course not enough. u look carefully u can tell , those minority ppl benefit from the hole won’t say one. Actually got a way but too late also. Must look macro first before zero down. It not subsidy issue it a very board issue . <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 1:22 pm - +Frankie Wee: I never see Singaporean any young age 21 getting married and start bto 

So far only age 30-40 getting marriage.

Early age 21 they may have prepare enough saving and investment grown. Start a family at 25 after NS

7/3/24, 1:23 pm - +Frankie Wee: Young age contribution will increase value over time.

7/3/24, 1:25 pm - +Rama: BTO is not suitable or practical for this age.

7/3/24, 1:25 pm - +KL: Got doctor ( medical student ) and some . In fact those do this are well to do one . <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 1:26 pm - +KL: Cos the know they can’t apply flat once out in job so they fast fast get hdb first (2015 to 2017 ) <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 1:27 pm - +Rama: Get resale meanwhile waiting.

7/3/24, 1:27 pm - +Rose M K Ho: It's called mechanical car park.

We alredi hv some in use in condos ard SG ... but abv grd & for low-rise condos (ie. ard 5-storeys high , w limited space)

7/3/24, 1:35 pm - +KL: That why even u wanted to marry will you took a risk to get ur flat reprocessed if u just grad or not even grad . Think deeply who will dare to do this . Those with financial power . It very simple thought but why no one think of it ? <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 1:37 pm - +KL: Maybe hdb should pull out your data to check those took bto before 24 , their pay is how much ? After they grad ?

7/3/24, 1:37 pm - +Rama: Fiance scheme has seen its fair share of costly cancellation !

7/3/24, 1:38 pm - +KL: That why they can afford to cancel cos they have the financial backing

7/3/24, 1:38 pm - +Frankie Wee: Where is old day kampang gone 

Now new era will have more harder times

7/3/24, 1:39 pm - +Rama: Spare change to let loose!

7/3/24, 1:39 pm - +Rama: Modern day kampong gotong royong is a farcade!

7/3/24, 1:44 pm - +Thank You: One service doesn’t tells you everything thing and how in depth do you know hence not really nice to say.  We all dun know what the aunty been through and how much help was she being offered.

7/3/24, 1:45 pm - +Thank You: With that MP YKONG it’s hopeless

7/3/24, 1:45 pm - +Rama: Not surprising!

7/3/24, 1:48 pm - +Thank You: Chan Chun Sing from MOE is 👍

7/3/24, 1:48 pm - +Rama: Cotton comes from sheep!🤦‍♂️

7/3/24, 1:49 pm - +Kenneth Lee WM: The MSF officer handling her case actually called me to update me that she is taken care off. They won't release details of the case due to privacy but I do believe it is sufficient.  eg: I have witness for myself that  destitutes are taken off the streets and are given food, clothing, shelter.  They don't have private rooms but are in shared dormitories.

7/3/24, 1:50 pm - +Rama: Ok

7/3/24, 1:52 pm - +Thank You: Precisely

7/3/24, 2:00 pm - +REACH: *Dear Contributors*

Here is a replacement for the first link!

📢 *Topic* 📢

The MediShield Life insurance plan is being reviewed to ensure healthcare remains accessible and affordable amid rising costs, Health Minister Ong Ye Kung announced on Wednesday (Mar 6). 

The proposed changes will better protect subsidised patients against major health episodes, said Minister Ong, adding that MediShield Life premiums will inevitably go up.

💬 *What are your thoughts on the proposed enhancements of MediShield Life to strengthen healthcare assurance amidst rising healthcare costs?*

Minister Ong said that with technological advancement, new treatments may work better but often cost more. Inflation has also gone up around the world in recent years, and that has also affected healthcare costs too.

Bill sizes have grown by 5 per cent annually in public hospitals, and by 7 per cent annually in private hospitals over the last few years.

As a result, the proportion of subsidised bills adequately covered by MediShield Life has come down to around eight out of 10 (against a benchmark of 9 out of 10) and this is expected to continue to slip further.

The MediShield Life Council has already begun the review process and is looking into three key areas.

📌 _*1) Increasing the claim limit*_

First, the council will look into enhancing MediShield Life to give Singaporeans greater assurance against large bills. This means increasing the claim limits – how much a patient can claim from MediShield Life – for both surgical operations and hospital stays.

📌 _*2) Enhancing other outpatient coverage*_

Second, the council will look at enhancing other outpatient coverage. Minister Ong said there is a need to raise the claim limits for treatments such as kidney dialysis to reduce out-of-pocket expenses for patients.

The council will also explore extending coverage to more types of outpatient care, including cancer treatments which are some of the most costly outpatient treatments.

The Mobile Inpatient Care-at-Home or MIC@Home is one home-based care service which will be covered by MediShield Life and other schemes and subsidies from Apr 1.

📌 _*3) Expanding coverage to new, groundbreaking therapy*_

Lastly, the council will also consider expanding MediShield Life coverage to new ground-breaking treatments, specifically cell, tissue and gene therapy products, also known as CTGTPs.

CTGTPs are intended for therapeutic, preventive, palliative or diagnostic purposes. 

"Medical science is advancing rapidly, and CTGTPs have the potential to revolutionise healthcare and deliver effective treatment of previously incurable diseases," said Minister Ong.

👉🏻https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/premiums-for-medishield-life-expected-to-rise-as-govt-looks-to-expand-scheme-s-coverage

 👉🏻https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/medishield-life-health-insurance-subsidies-community-hospitals-moh-4174391

7/3/24, 2:01 pm - +Kenneth Lee WM: Hence, if MSF is currently supporting the tissue lady, she shouldn't be bad mouthing government saying that gov is not helping her at all. If she doesn't have money for her operation and it is genuine, there are medical subsidy schemes that will take care of it. The social worker assigned to her will assist to get the necessary funding.

Caveat is if she's mentally unsound. then there's nothing to say ... <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 2:27 pm - +JC: I think this is a sensible move - with our ageing population, it would be unrealistic to assume that we can continue to have enough money to fund a world class health care system without increasing our contributions through increases in MSL premiums. 

Some other ideas for consideration:

1. Can MOH consider extending MSL coverage (and premiums contributions) to foreign residents who are working in Singapore? Majority of these residents are in the prime of their lives, with low risk of serious illness - including them in MSL will enable us to expand and reduce the average age of our insurance risk pool to the entire population rather than just citizens/PRs - this can have the effect of lowering average premiums overall. While it might increase the costs of businesses in the short run, it may improve our attractiveness as a destination for labor. It may also enable foreign labor to keep working and contribute to the economy here in SG even if they happen to encounter a serious episode of illness. It is also desirable from a human rights perspective.

7/3/24, 2:32 pm - +JC: 2. Can MOH consider integrating all ISPs into MSL so that we can benefit from a wider risk pool? Our small market and fragmented ISP landscape is not enabling us to benefit from the efficiencies of a competitive health insurance market. As the largest payer, it may be more efficient for MSL to become the single payer in SG but with calibrated tiered offerings to provide a range of options for coverage that ISPs r currently providing. There could be much efficiency gains that can b obtained thru this consolidation.

7/3/24, 2:37 pm - +JC: 3. Can MOH build more compassion into the new MSL system? While coverage for common diseases are good, there's abysmally inadequate coverage for people suffering from rare diseases. As one of the richest govt/countries in the world based on GDP per Capita, our govt can take the lead here to foster a more compassionate society.

7/3/24, 2:39 pm - +Frankie Wee: Type of disease coverage not all accept claim. Example HIV infection are not support <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 2:40 pm - +JC: 4. MOH needs to be more open to broader consultation when it comes to health policy changes as the pace of advancements is very rapid. Cell and gene therapies are not new and MOH could have done more to consider sandboxing policy changes that can enable patients to benefit from these treatments much faster. Given the severity of these diseases, some patients have sadly missed the opportunity to benefit from them.

7/3/24, 2:40 pm - +Frankie Wee: Cancer yes this called NDL or DL

(None drug lists) (drug lists)

7/3/24, 2:45 pm - +Thank You: I had been a care giver for a few have change of hands with MSW etc…….hence it’s not as easy as you think especially we should just empathise that they are sick and had been chatting with elderly etc….

Nowadays MSW are not so friendly as before they are worker who only follow the book and by who MSF. Too long of a story

7/3/24, 2:47 pm - +Thank You: Just be kind and thankful that we are not the only who’s sick and help as much as we can rather than saying they shouldn’t do this or that.  It is very terrible to be sick and when. More than 1 family member the care giver like me would just BURNT OUT

7/3/24, 2:48 pm - +Frankie Wee: I believe think technology is advance already new medical treatment is longevity and cured.

7/3/24, 2:49 pm - +Frankie Wee: That’s why rising cost subsidies

7/3/24, 2:51 pm - +Thank You: Talking about this am terrible upset as only oncologists knows what’s best for their patient and every patient reacts differently to individual medication. Hence these policy are by the FYI head of insurance company.  人在做天在看不是不报时成未到🙏 those who do bad plant the bad seed will eventually receive the bad fruit 🙏

7/3/24, 2:53 pm - +Thank You: FOR ALL YOU INFO, I had a shocked of my life that SGH charged $2K more than Mt E Orchard.  I am the spouse of the patient.  There are many underlying issues which rather upsets me. There are many things which are not disclose hence not everyone knows.

7/3/24, 2:55 pm - +Thank You: YKONG is using his military style of discipline.  Whereas Chan Chung Sing is Heart of Gold

7/3/24, 3:07 pm - +Rama: Politics should not accept OYK!

7/3/24, 3:08 pm - +Rama: Point 1. Premium must be above what citizens pay

7/3/24, 3:08 pm - +Rama: SGH charged but done at Mt. E!?

7/3/24, 3:14 pm - +Thank You: Nope we get quote from Mt E straight Fri the specialist and it was done in SGH and they bill

Came out was $7K

7/3/24, 3:16 pm - +Rama: Private hospital rates for a procedure done in a public hospital just because specialist from private hospital!?

7/3/24, 3:23 pm - +Frankie Wee: I understand there are two different types ward hospitals 

Govt hospitals subsidies 80% or 90%

Private hospitals non subsidies but with MediShield additional supply IP are coverage 65% or less than

7/3/24, 3:23 pm - +Frankie Wee: For those rich VP only private sector

7/3/24, 3:25 pm - +KL: Foreigner resident ? I don’t agree

7/3/24, 3:25 pm - +Rama: Likewise

7/3/24, 3:26 pm - +Frankie Wee: Pay full 100% medical cost

7/3/24, 3:26 pm - +KL: I dont understand why would ppl suggest this for the benefit of oneself than a country

7/3/24, 3:27 pm - +Frankie Wee: Is it here chat group some are foreigners???

7/3/24, 3:27 pm - +KL: If foreign construction worker only I may think yes not foreign resident. <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 3:27 pm - +Rama: Maybe

7/3/24, 3:27 pm - +Frankie Wee: 😱

7/3/24, 3:27 pm - +Rama: Agree

7/3/24, 3:28 pm - +KL: Think so one the year they suggest subsidy  education as citizen  during 14 Feb can’t remember which year <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 3:29 pm - +Rama: Free for citizens/PR!?

7/3/24, 3:29 pm - +KL: Can’t remeber the details

7/3/24, 3:29 pm - +Frankie Wee: Total 283 here chat group

7/3/24, 3:30 pm - +KL: 14 Feb 2023

7/3/24, 3:30 pm - +Frankie Wee: Mostly of them silently and never comments

7/3/24, 3:31 pm - +Frankie Wee: What do this mean chat group REACH

7/3/24, 3:35 pm - +Rama: Yeah

7/3/24, 3:37 pm - +Rama: Ask REACH for breakdown of participants ethnicity and citizenship.

7/3/24, 3:37 pm - +Bhavani: We can comment only if there aren't members who put us down and prevent us from airing our true views!

7/3/24, 3:37 pm - +Japanese word: lol… observe and see… if everyone talk then how to see?

7/3/24, 3:37 pm - +Thank You: 🤦‍♀️ procedure from 2 different specialists each from their own individual area however SGH bill was $2K extra.

1. Specialist for Mt E, procedure done at Mt E total $5K

2. Specialist from SingHealth, procedure done at public hospital total bill $7k

Like this u understand?🤦‍♀️


7/3/24, 3:38 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. Healthcare is an emotional issue - because it touches the life and well being of a human being.


2. And medical fees are hence usually expensive as medical tech progress with better treatment. Couple with inflation on material cost, utlilities and salaries for medical workers - it is not surprising that medical cost do creep up year after year.


3. My yearly medishield premium already cost close to $800. And after this announcement, as medical coverage slip with medical cost going up - there is a need to further raise the medishield premium.

I wonder how much increment will it be?


4. At one hand, I understand the rationale of the needs for increment to ensure:-

a. Increasing the claim limit 9 out of 10 of medical bills - and not let it slip below 9.

b. Enhancing more medical coverage 

- of course this will be better for people.


5. But on the other hand, worried that the higher premium will cause more financial burden on people - a dilemma.


6. I believe members are entitled to claim from the Medishield - in the event members are hospitalised (in B2/C wards) for treatment - but not for outpatient or A&E treatment without hospitalisation except some specified large chronic bill.


7. Having say so, I will still begrudgingly support point 4.


7/3/24, 3:38 pm - +Japanese word: Only voice something you feel strongly about. Not everything also will have opinions no?

7/3/24, 3:38 pm - +Rama: Medical costs are never fully comprehend!

7/3/24, 3:40 pm - +Thank You: I show the bill to three specialist on what’s the difference

7/3/24, 3:40 pm - +Rama: My worry is on point5.

7/3/24, 3:41 pm - +Thank You: It’s on facilities whereby as a public hospital vs small like Mt E the buying power is higher and by right they should get a price lower than the private sector however they charge was higher.

7/3/24, 3:42 pm - +Rama: https://goodyfeed.com/moh-cos-2024/


7/3/24, 3:43 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Likewise I also worry about point 5.


7/3/24, 3:44 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Because every items in our cost of living are also going up - with big jump.


7/3/24, 3:44 pm - +Thank You: Anyway so long as it’s YK ONG I dun see any future for us he seems to be OBVIOUSLY standing on the other side.  Well when he was an adviser at Yishun heard residents wrote to him but not very helpful another long story unlike now LOUIS is so Awesome

7/3/24, 3:44 pm - +Bhavani: With new technology adoption such as AI,  stem cell technology, nanotechnology, dna cures etc for the masses, actually by right medical costs should be going down, become negligible or even free so that the masses do not have to worry about medical bills and can lead a healthy life benefiting the nation <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 3:45 pm - +Bhavani: Don't have to worry

7/3/24, 3:45 pm - +Thank You: Anyway so long as it’s YK ong Haiz I dun want to waste my time on him….as inknew ppl from MOH the higher mgmt as well as ppl in medical equipment side so bye

7/3/24, 3:45 pm - +Rama: I compare him to former Health Minister KBW.

7/3/24, 3:47 pm - +Rama: AI still in infancy across all industries so only enough time and understanding can lower costs but not outright foc.


7/3/24, 3:49 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

But having say so, I am full of praise of the standard of our healthcare overall including dental - be it the polyclinics, restructured hospitals and our medical specialists.

They are of high standard, professional and many difficult medical conditions, they can treat patients very well.

My families and extended families members have benefitted greatly from our healthcare services.

Will like to take this opportunity to commend our healthcare services.


7/3/24, 3:51 pm - +Rama: Agree but hope to see one dental clinic in every Polyclinic.

7/3/24, 3:53 pm - +Bhavani: Also hope to see extremely dreadful, annoying and frustrating respiratory diseases like perennial allergic rhinitis and asthma and bronchitis disappear <This message was edited>

7/3/24, 3:54 pm - +Bhavani: These respiratory diseases affect our daily activities unbearably


7/3/24, 3:56 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

I thought this is already happening if I am not wrong.

Hougang polyclinic, Ang Mo Kio polyclinic all have dental clinics.


7/3/24, 3:57 pm - +Rama: Not in sengkang


7/3/24, 3:57 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Oh I see.


7/3/24, 3:58 pm - +Rama: Wrote to MOH a few times over years but still nothing concrete.

7/3/24, 3:59 pm - +Frankie Wee: Q Long waiting Singapore National dental centre 

I don’t have a choice go to Q & M dental with CHAS

7/3/24, 3:59 pm - +Rama: Pricy!

7/3/24, 3:59 pm - +Frankie Wee: YES

7/3/24, 4:01 pm - +REACH: *Dear Contributors*

7/3/24, 4:07 pm - +Thank You: The health care service is not bad dental not for me as I was told to come back again to cleanse my upper as lower is too much for them and I paid $80 just to cleanse half lol anyway now I am super good with the dentist at Takashimaya.

however they not managed by YK Ong This guys is so……..  mercenary

7/3/24, 4:16 pm - +KL: Actually some of the imported doctor really cmi . Someone I knew due to the delay treatment of the doctor situation not good . Actually should be can control intially but the doctor still wait and reluctant to ask their senior . <This message was edited>


7/3/24, 4:16 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

I have no problem with Minister Ong Ye Kung.

He is a nice and caring man if you know him.

When he was a young officer, he is a very nice person to talk to and very caring.


7/3/24, 4:18 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

And he is very bright.


7/3/24, 4:20 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

He is one heavy contributor in the 1st draft of the LTA white paper when he was a young officer.

That totally change the landscape of Singapore transport system from the 1990s to current.

At that time, no mrt, public bus no aircon, no electronic board that indicate arrival of bus, no 3 tier expressway etc.

Now Singapore transport system - 1st world. <This message was edited>


7/3/24, 5:05 pm - +Smiley face: 7 March, 2024

"Universal Health Care"

"New social issues need New solutions and importantly, New mindsets! Singapore was simple then and now we are living in a modern city, on the back of multiple challenges today and tomorrow,. In peaceful time, the comforts of air-conditioning, clean water, and the conveniences of our public services from education, transportation or healthcare. and it's a safer place to raise families."

-- anonymity

7/3/24, 5:53 pm - +Thank You: Probably that was the old him I personally email him regards the IP shield why take away the 100% coverage and told him about my sister as a cancer patient survived cause of this as she sees a private oncologist as when she was at NCC national cancer ctr the attending oncologist whose the top refuse to continue chemo for her and push her to a surgeon and when she text us she was told to remove 1 of her kidney which such BIG operation will take 10hrs or more we were all dumb founded.  Thank god she have this IP and she was recommended to the private oncologist and w/o any operation she survived thank Buddha it’s been 12yrs.

7/3/24, 5:54 pm - +Rama: Wonderful

7/3/24, 5:56 pm - +Thank You: When I email YKOng that IP shield saves my sister life for having the opportunity to see a private and seek TCM concurrently he went on the parliament and that face Iike he so dominant and say will further more cut the medishied percentage and also restrict the cancer patients medicine claim on the drug list.  To me was like is life more important or $$$

7/3/24, 5:56 pm - +Frankie Wee: How about the standard living same like Sweden?

7/3/24, 5:56 pm - +Thank You: As simple as this Covid jab they earn $$$$$ but causes so many injuries

7/3/24, 5:57 pm - +Thank You: 人在做天在看啊🙏

7/3/24, 5:58 pm - +Smiley face: Uniquely Our version....

7/3/24, 5:59 pm - +Smiley face: Not FOC! But  more Affordable...

7/3/24, 6:00 pm - +Smiley face: One way is a fixed percentage of 2% of Public hospitals profits and CPF members MA at 2% and re-invest into a pooled funds  jointly managed by MOH and MOF both at 2%; MOH & MOF matching whichever is higher contribution by dollars amount. The subscription is an option and non compulsory. The funding starting 2025 and the implementation year is 2030.

7/3/24, 6:02 pm - +Smiley face: the future policies were have to include crucial infrastructures from the preparedness against future medical crisis to identifying illnesses or diseases at early stages, variety of activities to match our seniors interests and home based supports for single and older seniors who prefer to live at home than in nursing home...

7/3/24, 6:03 pm - +Smiley face: Universal Healthcare?

It's an add-on to existing health plans. The main advantage of this UH is to afford and to further reduce the financial burden of patients...

7/3/24, 6:03 pm - +Frankie Wee: Despite his contributions to Singapore, Mr Lee’s muted personal appraisal of his life’s work could not have summed up better how he had gone about a duty he saw as his concern “till the end of my life”: “All I can say is, I did my best. This was the job I undertook, I did my best and I could not have done more in the circumstances. What people think of it, I have to leave to them. It is of no great consequence. What is of consequence is, I did my best.”

https://www.todayonline.com/rememberinglky/all-i-can-say-i-did-my-best

7/3/24, 6:03 pm - +Frankie Wee: I understood he did the best already


7/3/24, 6:37 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

1. I will not comment about your case because I don't know the details about your case and I am not hearing from many sides.

2. However I will like to comment on 100% medical coverage or 100% medical insurance coverage as a whole - that will bring about a "buffet syndrome" and runaway healthcare costs that happens in many countries until healthcare become unsustainable.


7/3/24, 6:39 pm - +Rama: Time frame for point 2?


7/3/24, 6:46 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

3. When I was a young officer, the then PM Lee has just appointed as DPM by the then PM Goh Chok Tong.

4. The 1st thing the DPM Lee look at is how to reform the 100% medical coverage for civil servants - a very hot button issue and very unpopular with the civil servants.

5. At that time, I can see civil servants are angry about the medical reform that change 100% medical coverage to co-share (cannot remember the ratio, but I think is 90:10. 90% cover by government, civil servants pay 10%.

6. The justification is very simple, when medical fees are free, people abused it 

7. Any slight uncomfortable, people will visit the doctors and get all kind of medicine - because foc mah.

8. Then who pay, taxpayers pay tax like hell, and healthcare costs shoot up like rocket.

9. At that time, junior civil servants are very vocal openly voicing their displeasure.

10. I as young officer, just join in fact felt that the new DPM is very brave and very wise - because he can see the big picture and ensure healthcare will be sustainable - and people use it when necessary - not abusing it.

11. If course I keep the thinking to myself, don't want to be whack by the seniors.

12. After a while, everyone get use to it, and healthcare costs are contained.


7/3/24, 6:46 pm - +REACH: *Dear Contributors,*

⏰ We will be closing the chat in *15 minutes* ⏰

Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊


7/3/24, 6:50 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

13. When a Minister coin a policy, he always looks at the big picture, ensure budget is sustainable and not bankrupt the nation or worst push everything to our younger generation or our future descendants like what many developed countries do.

14. Good Ministers, good government must be responsible and take care of everyone, including our future descendants.

15. Likewise, as a head of my home, I also won't allow my family members to anyhow waste money on frivolous things and ensure money are used carefully so that our finances are sustainable and we don't go into debt.


7/3/24, 6:51 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

If I remember correctly, the latest news, MoH Ong Ye Kung announce that everyone, not only the rich will have access to all new cancer treatment if I am not wrong.


7/3/24, 6:53 pm - +Thank You: free we pay extra to me is if it can save people lives I do not mind what comes first is a person life 救人一命胜造七级浮屠。


7/3/24, 6:53 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Yeh, including bankrupting the whole nation? <This message was edited>


7/3/24, 6:54 pm - +Thank You: All paramedic staff when they become a doctor they have to swear one injury is too many


7/3/24, 6:55 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Well I never go for misplaced compassion.

I only support compassion with wisdom.


7/3/24, 6:55 pm - +Thank You: lol ok then U sacrifice and go experience the not able to get treated and suffer all the pain the torture


7/3/24, 6:56 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

I recall you WhatsApp me personally before on this topic.

And i stand by my position.


7/3/24, 6:56 pm - +Thank You: Dun recall


7/3/24, 6:56 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Well could be another person on the same topic


7/3/24, 6:57 pm - +Thank You: I only write to “Decision” maker


7/3/24, 6:57 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Anyone support paying $10,000 a year as medishield premium to support this initiative?


7/3/24, 6:57 pm - +Thank You: I’ve seen action changes and was very glad


7/3/24, 6:58 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

I won't.


7/3/24, 6:58 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Good that you praise Ong Ye Kung for the new initiative.


7/3/24, 6:58 pm - +Rama: Likewise

7/3/24, 6:58 pm - +Thank You: I dun pay 10K/year though


7/3/24, 6:58 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: Wise man.


7/3/24, 6:59 pm - +Thank You: lol not him

7/3/24, 6:59 pm - +Smiley face: 7 March, 2024

"Universal Health Care"

"New social issues need New solutions and importantly, New mindsets! Singapore was simple then and now we are living in a modern city, on the back of multiple challenges today and tomorrow,. In peaceful time, the comforts of air-conditioning, clean water, and the conveniences of our public services from education, transportation or healthcare. and it's a safer place to raise families."

-- anonymity

In our current conflict-stricken world, it is imminent that we practice resilience, as within these challenges lie opportunities for new thinking to solve pressing issues and new problems, able to adapt and transit and growth.

The belief that continuous learning and understanding are vital for thriving in a world of ever-evolving demographics, in particularly the accelerating aging of our people that brings many new unseen global challenges such as climate change, ensuring no shortage of water and food security, the future policies were have to include crucial infrastructures from the preparedness against future medical crisis to identifying illnesses or diseases at early stages, variety of activities to match our seniors interests and home based supports for single and older seniors who prefer to live at home than in nursing home.

Universal Healthcare?

It's an add-on to existing health plans. The main advantage of this UH is to afford and to further reduce financial burden of patients medical services at the hospital care level, at home care level and other levels of care and not overly dependent on our fiscal policy and taxpayers. Importantly, early interventions or cures is one way to save life and save cost.

A minimum sum that is affordable to all for medical procedures or early interventions. for critical care. The cost will increase according to the next procedure and complex treatments and so on. The starting fees at $500 onwards to the maximum of $20,000 in cases of Cancer Cares excluding Hospice cares, itself is another affordable fee and home care is the most common protocol for 80% of illnesses and diseases and the cost starts from $100/week.

How to fund this UH up to 5%  incremental cost on a yearly basis? And can this be as competitive and model from our existing general medical cares at the Polyclinics?

One way is a fixed percentage of 2% of Public hospitals profits and CPF members MA at 2% and re-invest into a pooled funds  jointly managed by MOH and MOF both at 2%; MOH & MOF matching whichever is higher contribution by dollars amount. The subscription is an option and non compulsory. The funding starting 2025 and the implementation year is 2030.

               - - in progress - -

7/3/24, 6:59 pm - +Rama: Oh!


7/3/24, 6:59 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Buddhism teach selfless, compassion with wisdom - not misplaced compassion.

And certainly not cursing someone.


7/3/24, 7:00 pm - +Thank You: Dr Faishal, Gan Kim Ying, lim Swee say, Ang Him Kee, Louis, Chan Chun Sing of course Mr Lee is the one I wrote to


7/3/24, 7:00 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Anyone got the news article about minister Ong Ye Kung news on cancer treatment?


7/3/24, 7:00 pm - +REACH: *Dear Contributors,*

We will be closing the chat for today.

Thank you very much for being part of our WhatsApp chat and participating actively.

Goodnight!

Megan 😊

7/3/24, 7:00 pm - +Thank You: 慈悲


7/3/24, 7:01 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Not compassion with irresponsible.


7/3/24, 7:01 pm - +Thank You: One injury is too many


7/3/24, 7:01 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

Learn from attained monk.


7/3/24, 7:02 pm - +Thank You: Who

7/3/24, 7:02 pm - +Thank You: You


7/3/24, 7:02 pm - ☸️  Danny 心: 

I not monk.


7/3/24, 7:02 pm - +Thank You: This is all

Doctors have to swear

7/3/24, 7:02 pm - ~ REACH Singapore changed this group's settings to allow only admins to send messages to this group


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