Why did the Government design the Standard Integrated Shield Plan (IP) to have claim limits, instead of as-charged coverage? Since it is not as-charged, is the Standard IP enough for Class B1?
The Standard Integrated Shield Plan (IP) was designed with claim limits to balance between providing adequate coverage and ensuring that premiums remain affordable.
In general, claim limits in insurance plans are useful to serve as protection against over-servicing, over-consumption and overcharging, which contribute to claims escalation, premium increases and rising healthcare costs in the long-run.
The Standard IP’s claim limits are sized to cover 9 out of 10 Ward B1 bills. It will therefore be sufficient for most policyholders who stay in a Class B1 ward in public hospitals. Patients can tap on MediSave to help pay for the deductible and co-insurance.
The Ministry of Health will regularly review the Standard IP benefits to ensure that they continue to provide sufficient coverage at the Ward B1 or equivalent level.
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