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Ministry of Health has decided to revise its
healthcare subsidy provided at its polyclinics. |
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Currently, foreign patients make up about 5%
of the polyclinic patient-load. The vast majority of these patients are
foreign workers. They are subsidized like citizens. |
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As most workers come under the
responsibility of their employers for medical benefits, this means that
the Ministry has been subsidizing employers. This does not seem
appropriate. |
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From 1 Jan 2006, the Ministry will no longer
provide such subsidy to foreigners at the polyclinics. |
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Foreigners who are Permanent Residents (PRs)
however will continue to be subsidized, but at a reduced rate compared
to citizens. |
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This way, there is clear differentiation in
health benefits as enjoyed by citizens, PRs and other foreigners. |
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At present, polyclinic basic consultation
fees are about $8. With this change, PRs can expect to pay about $12 for
basic consultation, while other foreigners can expect to pay about $16. |
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Source:
www.moh.gov.sg Press Release 12 Nov
2005 |
Foreigners
to get no subsidy at polyclinics from 2006
