Who is eligible to join ElderShield?
Today, all Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents with MediSave accounts are auto-enrolled into ElderShield at the age of 40, and they can choose to opt out.
For auto-enrolled insureds, there will be no exclusions for pre-existing medical conditions like diabetes or hypertension. However, if you opt out and wish to opt back in later, you will be subject to a medical assessment, during which your applications may be rejected by the insurers if you have pre-existing medical conditions.
Pre-existing severe disabilities are not covered. If you are severely disabled, you are
advised to make a declaration when you receive your Welcome Letter for auto-enrolment from your ElderShield insurer. This is because those with pre-existing disabilities will not be eligible for claims. Any premiums already collected will be refunded.
A small group of seniors who were not eligible for ElderShield when it was launched in 2002 (because they were aged 70 and above in 2002 or had pre-existing disabilities then) are eligible for the Interim Disability Assistance Programme for the Elderly (IDAPE).