The pioneer generation healthcare “minefield”?

August 30, 2014

We refer to the article “Chas subsidies at specialist outpatient clinics only for those receiving subsidised services” (Straits Times,  Aug 30).

How not to get subsidies?

It states that “However, Dr Khor stressed that Chas subsidies at specialist outpatient clinics (SOCs) are only applicable for those receiving subsidised services – even for the pioneer generation.

Depends on what type of doctor refers you?

Those seeking subsidised care should get referrals from a polyclinic doctor or – if they are a Chas card holder or have a Pioneer Generation Card – a GP on the Chas scheme.”

– Does this mean that any patient (not just the pioneer generation or Chas card holders) must not be referred by a GP who is not on the Chas panel – will not be allowed to choose subsidised treatment or hospitalisation in C and B2 wards?

How many people are aware of this?

Go polyclinic and then come back again?

Can those who didn’t know be advised by the hospital or SOC that they can go to a polyclinic or Chas panel GP (only for those with a Chas card), and then come back again in order to qualify for subsidised treatment?

Why is our public healthcare system full of “minefields” like this?

Got pioneer but no Chas?

As to “She added that Pioneer Generation members who wish to get even higher subsidies at SOCs should apply for the Chas card if they qualify”

– Was this announced in the media pteviously?

If not, why not?

Was this highlighted in the pioneer generation package which was sent out this month?

Was a Chas application form included in the package?

S Y Lee and Leong Sze Hian

 
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About the Author

Leong
Leong Sze Hian has served as the president of 4 professional bodies, honorary consul of 2 countries, an alumnus of Harvard University, authored 4 books, quoted over 1500 times in the media , has been a radio talkshow host, a newspaper daily columnist, Wharton Fellow, SEACeM Fellow, columnist for theonlinecitizen and Malaysiakini, executive producer of Ilo Ilo (40 international awards), Hotel Mumbai (associate producer), invited to speak more than 200 times in about 40 countries, CIFA advisory board member, founding advisor to the Financial Planning Associations of 2 countries. He has 3 Masters, 2 Bachelors degrees and 13 professional  qualifications.