About this article:
- Learn about the flexibility of choosing between private and public hospitals with an Integrated Shield Plan.
- Read about Andre’s real-life experience with health insurance during a medical emergency.
- Explore the long-term advantages of health insurance for managing chronic conditions.
In a world where health emergencies can strike at any moment, having health insurance can make the difference between life and death.
For Andre, this reality hit hard one night at 3 a.m. when he was just 32.
Andre's Sudden Health Scare: The Importance of Immediate Care
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“It was about 3 a.m., and I woke up with severe chest pains and drenched in cold sweat,” Andre recalls vividly.
Earlier that day, Andre had been to the gym, doing bench presses. So he was unsure if it could be because his bench presses were too heavy.
...Or if I was having a heart attack. Both my grandfathers passed away from heart attacks, so the fear was very real.
In panic, Andre woke his wife, who insisted they head straight to the nearest private hospital.
Within two hours, Andre underwent an ECG and consulted with a cardiologist.
“It was all very fast, which is what I wanted.”
Thankfully, the ECG revealed that Andre was not having a heart attack. However, a subsequent CT Angiogram showed that his left descending artery was 95% blocked. This type of blockage is frequently known as the “widow maker”; in fact, any later and his condition would have been fatal.
Understanding Stenting: A Lifesaving Procedure
“When they told me my left descending artery was 95% blocked, I was shocked. They didn’t let me leave the hospital,” Andre explained.
Within a couple of hours, Andre was on the operating table, having a stent put in.
Upon the specialist’s recommendation, Andre had a drug-eluting stent inserted — a relatively new option at the time. This device releases medication to prevent the artery from re-narrowing (restenosis) by inhibiting the growth of scar tissue inside the artery.
What is Stenting?
Stenting is a medical procedure used to treat blocked arteries, commonly due to coronary artery disease. A stent — a small wire mesh tube, is inserted into the artery to keep it open, allowing blood to flow more freely. This procedure can be life-saving, especially in cases where the artery is severely blocked, as it was with Andre.
Andre’s experience with the procedure was both surreal and enlightening.
“They gave me the option to go under or watch the procedure. I decided to watch. It was like my own little Discovery Channel episode. Seeing the balloon go in and then the stent being placed was fascinating.”
Flexibility with an Integrated Shield Plan: Urgent Medical Attention vs Long-Term Medication
Thanks to his Integrated Shield Plan, Andre had quick access to a cardiologist and received prompt treatment. This highlights the importance of being able to choose private hospital care in urgent situations.
“Having insurance meant I didn’t have to worry about the costs and could focus on getting the best care immediately, without the stress of massive medical bills,” he explains.
Following his initial emergency, Andre required regular medication and check-ups, so he began obtaining his medication from public hospitals to lower his recurring costs. The flexibility to switch between private and public healthcare as needed has been a major advantage for him.
If I feel any severe chest pains, I go to private hospitals for immediate tests. This way, I don’t have to wait and worry. But for my long-term medication and standard cardiac tests, I go to public hospitals. This flexibility is crucial for my peace of mind.
Why You Should Get Covered Early: Andre’s Advice to Young Adults
Andre’s journey through Singapore’s healthcare system underscores the importance of getting insured early.
“I was lucky to have bought insurance as soon as I started working. If you wait until you have a health issue, no one will cover you. Insurance is about peace of mind and financial security.”
His advice to young adults?
Even with minimal coverage, it's crucial to get insured. Take responsibility for your health now rather than waiting for a medical emergency to highlight the need for health insurance.
Andre’s experience underscores the importance of understanding what your health insurance policy covers. His journey highlights how an Integrated Shield Plan can offer essential support and peace of mind, both immediately and in the long term.
Know Your Coverage, Before You Need It
HealthInsured SG aims to help you understand the details of your health insurance policy. Being well-informed empowers you to focus on recovery, free from the added stress of financial burdens.
