SINGAPORE : The government is on track to implement means testing in January next year at all public hospitals.

Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan said preparations are on-going to link up with agencies like the Central Provident Fund Board and the Inland Revenue Authority.

Means testing helps to focus healthcare resources to needy Singaporeans, with low-income citizens receiving higher government subsidies.

Mr Khaw was speaking to reporters after launching a campaign on colorectal cancer on Saturday.

The minister also confirmed that the new Khoo Teck Puat Hospital in Yishun will be operational come 2010.

This is despite higher construction costs.

The initial budget was over S$400 million. But now, that has been revised to more than S$700 million.

Means testing will ensure lower-income Singaporeans have access to subsidised wards like C-class hospital beds.

This scheme will also ensure such beds are not overcrowded by those who can afford higher medical bills.

Mr Khaw said: "I expect a January implementation which is hassle free and ought to be uneventful. (The) majority will not have a problem with means testing and (for) a small minority of high-income patients, the criteria are very generous, so they'll be expected to pay a little bit more, but not a lot more. (It will be) well within their affordability level. So Singaporeans need not worry."

And to avoid operations or a hospital stay, the minister said Singaporeans should maintain a healthy lifestyle.

Touring an exhibition on colorectal cancer awareness at Suntec City Mall, Mr Khaw said Singaporeans should go for regular screenings, particularly if there is a family history of the disease.

Mr Khaw said: "Particularly if there's a family history, (if) the doctor says you should do the scope more often, then please do so. Medisave allows for payment, the insurance allows for payment. So there really shouldn't...(be) financial constraints...stopping the patient from coming forward, other than inertia or ignorance."

Mr Khaw added that Singapore's healthcare system is in place and the next step is to invest more in up-stream activities - that is to achieve better diagnosis, improved research and better prevention strategies. - CNA/ms