7th May 2019
MOH's reply
Seniors can tap MediSave500 to pay for key vaccinations
We thank Mr Andrew Seow Chwee Guan for his letter (Consider grants for the elderly to get key vaccinations, April 27).
Influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations are listed under the National Adult Immunisation Schedule (NAIS) and are recommended for those in high-risk groups, such as those aged 65 years and above, or those with certain pre-existing medical conditions.
Under the MediSave500 scheme, persons in high-risk groups can use up to $500 per year for vaccinations under NAIS.
Patients who have lower MediSave balances may choose to tap their immediate family member's (for example, child, spouse, parent) MediSave account, up to the prevailing withdrawal limits.
Singaporeans who require additional financial assistance can apply for MediFund at approved institutions.
We will continue to review our vaccination policies to ensure accessibility and affordability for Singaporeans.
Lim Siok Peng
Director, Corporate Communications
Ministry of Health
Forum Letter
The Straits Times, 27 April 2019
Consider grants for the elderly to get key vaccinations
The call for the public, particularly the elderly, to go for pneumococcal jabs is timely (More pneumonia deaths but low take-up for vaccine, April 24), and there could be several reasons for the low take-up rate of the vaccination.
One reason may be cost, which could be a big consideration, especially for the low-income.
They are likely to prioritise their daily basic needs over vaccinations.
Polyclinics charge about $25 for an influenza vaccination, which is effective for a year, while a pneumococcal (pneumonia) vaccination costs around $75 and is good for five years.
Although MediSave can now be tapped for both flu and pneumonia jabs, many needy elderly people may not have sufficient funds in their MediSave accounts as they are likely to have used the money for other medical problems.
Even with the annual $200 top-ups to their MediSave accounts, as well as other eligible subsidies to pay for their annual MediShield Life premiums, the elderly may hardly have money left to use for vaccinations.
Perhaps the Government should take the lead by setting aside a grant for both immunisation jabs for elderly people.
Thereafter, the five community development councils could undertake this responsibility as a form of a community health outreach programme.
With our rapidly ageing population, diseases are a concern among the elderly, whose low immunity may often lead to them being hospitalised. Among the common medical issues are influenza and pneumonia.
After all, this is a form of appreciation to our pioneers who have, in one way or another, built this nation.
Andrew Seow Chwee Guan