About this article:
- Understand the changes in cancer treatment financing in Singapore and how the Cancer Drug List (CDL) impacts MediShield Life and Integrated Shield Plans.
- Learn the step-by-step process for filing insurance claims for cancer treatments, including critical illness insurance.
- Discover available financial support options for cancer patients and how to navigate them effectively
Cancer is a daunting diagnosis, not just for the physical and emotional toll it takes but also for the financial burden it imposes.
In Singapore, the government has implemented various measures to make cancer treatment more affordable through:
- MediShield Life (MSHL)
- Creation of the Cancer Drug List (CDL) and,
- Integrated Shield Plans (IP).
This guide aims to educate you on financing cancer treatment, navigating the Cancer Drug List, and understanding the critical role of insurance coverage.
Table of Contents
Understanding the Cancer Drug List: What You Need to Know
What it is and why changes were made
Before September 2022, cancer drug costs were high due to a lack of incentives for drug companies to offer competitive prices.
This led to higher insurance premiums and treatment costs for Singaporeans.
The introduction of the Cancer Drug List (CDL) aims to negotiate lower prices and ensure sustainable and affordable cancer treatment in the long term.
How the cancer drug list affects coverage
Previous Coverage | Revised Coverage | |
|---|---|---|
MediSave | $3000/month on drugs and services | $200–$900/month on drugs (only for drugs listed in CDL)
$1200/year on services |
MediShield Life (MSHL) | $1200/month on drugs and services
Additional $600/year for cancer-related services | $600–$1200/month on drugs, depending on MSHL claim limit
$600/year for cancer-related services |
Integrated Shield Plan (IP) | “As-charged” coverage; varies across different IPs and insurers. | Coverage has been capped
For more comprehensive coverage, consider riders that 1.) increase claim limits, or 2.) cover treatment options not in the CDL |
From 1 September 2022, MediShield Life and MediSave only cover treatments listed on the CDL.
Each treatment on the CDL has specific claim limits, which apply to both outpatient and inpatient treatments. For Integrated Shield Plans, these changes took effect upon policy renewal or application on 1 April 2023.
Impact of the Cancer Drug List on MediShield Life Coverage
The introduction of the Cancer Drug List has significantly impacted how MediShield Life covers cancer treatments.
Only drugs listed on the CDL are eligible for claims under MediShield Life, meaning patients and doctors must carefully choose effective treatments covered by insurance.
This change has emphasised cost-effective treatments, ensuring patients receive high-quality care without unnecessary financial burden.
However, it also means that some newer or less common treatments may not be covered, requiring patients to explore alternative funding options.
How to Finance Cancer Treatment in Singapore with MediShield Life and Integrated Shield Plan
MediShield Life is a basic health insurance plan that covers large hospital bills and certain costly outpatient treatments. It is designed to cover treatment in Class B2/C wards in public hospitals. However, Integrated Shield Plans are crucial for more comprehensive coverage, especially for private hospital care.
Integrated Shield Plans are optional but recommended for those who prefer more comprehensive coverage. The IPs offered by private insurers and provide enhanced coverage beyond MediShield Life, including:
- Higher ward classes in public hospitals (Class A/B1)
- Private hospital stays
- Higher coverage for hospitalisation expenses
- Coverage for selected outpatient treatments
These plans allow you to choose your preferred doctor or specialist, whether in a public or private hospital and offer more extensive financial protection in case of serious illness like cancer.
How to Claim Cancer Drug Treatment Under MediShield Life
If your cancer treatment is on the Cancer Drug List, you can make a claim under MediShield Life. Here’s a step-by-step guide to the claims process:
- Check the Cancer Drug List: Verify that your prescribed treatment is listed on the CDL. The latest CDL can be found here.
- Consult with Your Doctor: Discuss the treatment plan with your doctor to ensure it aligns with the claimable benefits under MediShield Life and your Integrated Shield Plan.
- Submit the Claim: Your medical provider will typically submit the claim directly to the insurer. Ensure all required documentation, such as medical reports and invoices, is provided.
- Review the Claim: The insurer will review the claim and apply the relevant coverage limits based on the CDL. The payout will be made according to the terms of MediShield Life and your IP.
- Receive the Payout: Once the claim is approved, the payout will be made to the medical provider, reducing the amount you need to pay out of pocket.
Using Critical Illness Plans for Cancer Patients
Critical Illness Plan is an additional layer of financial protection that provides a lump sum payout upon diagnosis of a specified critical illness, including cancer. This payout can be used for a variety of purposes, including:
- Covering medical expenses not fully covered by MediShield Life or IPs
- Paying for alternative treatments not covered by insurance
- Managing daily living expenses during recovery
- Covering loss of income if you are unable to work
Singlife Cancer Cover Plus II provides comprehensive coverage for cancer treatments, including advanced options like Proton Beam Therapy and Cell, Tissue, and Gene Therapy. With coverage of up to S$1.5 million, it reduces out-of-pocket expenses for both local and overseas treatments. The plan is easy to apply for and enhances financial protection against costly cancer care.
Why is Critical Illness Insurance Important?
While MediShield Life and IPs cover a significant portion of your medical bills, out-of-pocket expenses can add up, especially if you opt for private hospital care or need treatments not covered by the CDL. A Critical Illness Plan helps bridge this gap, providing financial support when you need it most.
Additionally, Critical Illness Plans can cover a wider range of conditions, including heart attack, stroke, and kidney failure.
Understanding the Insurance Claims Process for Cancer Treatments
Navigating the insurance claims process for cancer treatments can be complex, especially if you are dealing with multiple policies. Here are some key steps to ensure a smooth process:
- Understand Your Coverage: Review your MediShield Life and Integrated Shield Plan policies to understand what is covered, the claim limits, and any exclusions.
- Gather Documentation: Ensure you have all necessary documentation, including medical reports, treatment plans, and invoices. You will need this to file a claim.
- File the Claim Promptly: Submit your claim as soon as possible after receiving treatment. Delays can complicate the process and may result in rejected claims.
- Follow-up with Insurers: Contact your insurer regularly to monitor the status of your claim. Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
- Seek Professional Help if Needed: If the claims process becomes overwhelming, consider seeking help from a financial advisor or insurance consultant specialising in healthcare claims.
Other Financial Assistance for Cancer Treatments in Singapore
In addition to MediShield Life, Integrated Shield Plans, and Critical Illness Plans, there are several financial assistance schemes available in Singapore to help cover the cost of cancer treatments:
- MediFund: A government-funded scheme designed to help low-income Singaporeans who cannot afford medical bills, even after subsidies and MediShield Life payouts.
- Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS): This scheme provides subsidies for lower to middle-income Singaporeans to receive outpatient medical and dental care at participating clinics.
- Subsidised Care in Public Healthcare Institutions: Singaporeans receiving treatment in public hospitals may be eligible for subsidies that significantly reduce the cost of care.
- Employer Insurance: Some employers offer group health insurance that includes coverage for cancer treatment. Check with your HR department to understand the extent of your coverage.
Know Your Coverage, Before You Need It
Financing cancer treatment in Singapore requires a thorough understanding of your health insurance options, including MediShield Life, Integrated Shield Plans, and Critical Illness Plans.
With the introduction of the Cancer Drug List, navigating your coverage has become more complex but also more cost-effective.
By staying informed and taking advantage of available financial assistance schemes, you can ensure that you receive the best possible care without facing overwhelming financial strain.
