Did you know that by 2026, one in five Singaporeans are expected to be 65 or older, making the country a “super-aged” society?
This is a huge change that calls for innovative solutions to meet the healthcare requirements of an increasingly elderly population.
Nowadays, there have been several new developments that will improve your healthcare experience, especially if you need to get medical and nursing care in the comfort of your own home.
An Easy Way to Pay for Healthcare at Home Using MediSave
It might be difficult to gain access to healthcare funding if you or a loved one are homebound patients. If you have trouble getting around, home healthcare may be a better option than visiting a clinic or hospital. However, it has not previously been possible to access your MediSave account for these services.
The Ministry of Health (MOH) will begin facilitating easy access to funding healthcare costs in all settings on October 1, 2023. The Home Nursing Foundation, NTUC Health, and SATA CommHealth, all of which get funding from the Ministry of Health, can now submit MediSave claims on behalf of their homebound patients. This gives you the same financial freedom and peace of mind as using your MediSave to pay for in-clinic medical care.
Patients in need of home-based care may soon have more options thanks to the expansion of MediSave’s use to other, non-MOH-funded home medical and nursing providers. This is done so that people can get the care they need from whichever provider they prefer.
From July 1, 2023 onward, the Ministry of Health has subsidised and allowed the use of MediSave for home palliative care services, acknowledging the benefit and convenience of telehealth. This is designed for people with terminal illnesses who need more care.
The Ministry of Health is looking into expanding MediSave and subsidy eligibility to cover teleconsultations for chronic disease management later this year. People who suffer from illnesses like diabetes, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure would benefit greatly from this. The Ministry of Health’s goal in providing tele-consultations is to encourage self-care and reduce the number of times patients need to go to the doctor.
Supporting Healthier Lifestyles with Healthier SG
The Ministry of Health (MOH) of Singapore has launched Healthier SG, a nationwide project focused on preventive health, because it is better to prevent illness than to treat it.
Healthier SG recommends establishing a long-term partnership with one primary care physician rather than dividing your healthcare needs across a number of specialists. A personalized health plan will be created for you that includes your objectives, preventative screenings, and recommended immunizations. The overarching goal of this strategy is to identify developing health problems at an early stage so that they can be managed successfully.
Increased Subsidies and MediSave to Fund Telehealth
The introduction of telehealth has completely altered the way people get medical attention. You can now consult with medical professionals while relaxing at home by simply using your mobile device or computer. The time and money spent on getting to and from medical institutions is eliminated with this method.
Selecting a trusted family physician guarantees continuous, attentive treatment throughout time. Your doctor will also suggest ways to improve your lifestyle and community physical activity programs that are specifically designed to meet your needs.
Healthier SG has begun enrolling Singaporean citizens and permanent residents aged 60 and up in July 2023. If you fit this description, you can keep an eye on your SMS inbox to get the invitation or you can schedule your free initial health plan consultation at a clinic of your choice through the Healthier SG app. Don’t worry if you’re between the ages of 40 and 59, you will be invited to participate in the program at a later time.
In addition, you will receive $20 worth of Healthpoints in your Healthy 365 app following your initial health plan session. Moreover, all recommended checkups and immunizations for Singaporeans will be provided fully subsidised nationally. Gaining benefits for your health while doing something you enjoy is a win-win situation.
All of us may look forward to a healthier future thanks to these improvements. It’s not enough to simply extend one’s lifespan; quality of life factors such as health, leisure, and financial stability should also be considered. You may make the most of your retirement years and have more time to follow your interests and goals if you’re open to these innovations.
You have the ability to seize these chances as Singapore’s healthcare system changes in the future. The goals of Healthier SG and other government programs like Medisave, which provide access to in-home medical care, nursing services, and telehealth, are to give you the tools you need to lead a happier, healthier, and more productive life.
Prepare yourself to take the first step on the path to improved health and happiness. You’ll be grateful to yourself in the future!
Get going, already!
Discuss your current financial situation with a financial advisor today to get some advice on how to better plan for the future.