Medifund committees asked to be flexible when assessing applications for aid
By Margaret Perry, Channel NewsAsia | Posted: 15 September 2008 2050 hrs

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SINGAPORE: High inflation and manpower costs have driven up public hospitals' operating costs.

So to help needy patients cope with these rising costs, Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan said the budget for Medifund reimbursements this year has been set at S$70 million. This is an increase of S$20 million from last year's allocation of S$50 million.

Speaking in Parliament on Monday, Mr Khaw said Medifund committees have been asked to be especially flexible when evaluating the applications by elderly patients for assistance under Medifund-Silver.

Hospitals have been reminded to look out for patients who may have problems paying their bills. To ease the burden, patients can pay their bills in instalments.

Mr Khaw said: "As compared to last year, there has so far been no increase in the number of arrears cases. Patient cases in arrears after two months from discharge remain below 4 per cent.

Our system of heavy government subsidies, Medisave, MediShield and Medifund have ensured that basic healthcare services in public hospitals remain affordable to all Singaporeans." - CNA/vm