The Singapore government is footing all bills incurred by coronavirus patients in public hospitals, the Ministry of Health has confirmed on Feb. 12.
But this coverage does not extend to outpatient treatment.
This measure was previously revealed on Jan. 28.
MOH said all patients suspected of being infected by Covid-19 must be admitted to hospitals for isolation and management to prevent community transmission.
This implies that it applies to both locals and foreigners.
MOH also said that it was footing the bill as Covid-19 then was an emerging disease.
In its latest statement to the press, MOH said: “The government will pay the hospital bill in full for such admissions in public hospitals, which are required for public health reasons.”
However, there are caveats.
This coverage does not extend to outpatient treatment at general practitioner clinics or polyclinics.
It also does not apply to treatment sought at private medical facilities.
Currently, all confirmed cases are currently treated at public hospitals.
Separately, the General Insurance Association of Singapore (GIA) and the Life Insurance Association, Singapore (LIA) said in a statement on Feb. 11 that policyholders with Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) and riders from insurers will be covered for hospitalisation expenses related to the coronavirus.
The two insurance associations added that policyholders are advised to approach their financial adviser and/ or insurer to find out more about their insurance benefits and terms and conditions in their policies.
Previously:
Top photo via Singapore General Hospital