I refer to the Parliamentary written reply on cancer treatment (23 Feb)
https://www.moh.gov.sg/news……/details/cancer-drug-list
“While some patients are undergoing treatment using drugs not on the CDL, most of them continue to be covered by their Integrated Shield Plan (IP) insurance. Insurers have committed to preserve the current IP coverage of policyholders at least until 30 September 2023.
Based on the typical duration of cancer treatment, most patients would have completed their treatment with non-CDL drugs by 30 September 2023.”
Comment:
I am rather confused – what does “most patients would have completed their treatment with non-CDL drugs by 30 September 2023” – 60%, 70%?
“For those whose treatments extend beyond 30 September 2023, there are a few possibilities.
One, it is possible that as the CDL continues to expand, it may include their treatment by then.
Two, doctors and patients may consider shifting towards CDL treatments that are clinically proven and more cost-effective.
Three, if non-CDL treatments continue to be needed, they may still be covered by private insurance products such as IP riders or critical illness plans that they previously purchased.
Four, patients who require non-CDL treatments and face affordability issues may opt for subsidised care at Public Healthcare Institutions, where they may apply for additional support such as MediFund.”
Comment:
I am rather confused – does this mean that one has to hope that the “now excluded drugs” may hopefully become “included”, by the end of Sep?
Does this mean that one has to hope that the cancer that one has is the type of cancer which allows the “approved drugs”, and not have the type of cancer that is “not approved”?
If one already has cancer – how is it possible to get any insurance company to get coverage for the treatment through riders or critical illness plans?
Does this mean that for those who are now in good health – they should get coverage for the treatment through riders or critical illness plans, so that they shall be covered, if they get the type of cancer (that is included) in the future
Since it is “not included” in the first place – how is it possible to opt for subsidised care?
And also, how is it possible to apply for support from MediFund?
You mean Medifund can provide support for “not included cancer drugs”?
Or does it mean that since your “not included” is no longer covered – you should switch to “included” treatment, and if you are unable to pay – you can opt for subsidised treatment and apply for Medifund?
