INSURERS' RESPONSIBILITY IN INFORMING AND GIVING ADEQUATE NOTICE TO POLICYHOLDERS FOR CHANGES IN COVERAGE AND CLAIMS

NOTICE PAPER NO. 3382

NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR ORAL ANSWER

FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 4 FEBRUARY 2025

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Ms Joan Pereira

MP for Tanjong Pagar GRC

Question No. 7117

To ask the Minister for Health with regard to hospitalisation insurance plans' coverage for upgrades (a) what measures are in place to ensure that policyholders are provided with sufficient time to be informed of the changes in coverage payments; and (b) how does the Ministry ensure that insurance companies explain the changes clearly to their policyholders. 

NOTICE PAPER NO. 3382

NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR ORAL ANSWER

FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 4 FEBRUARY 2025

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Yip Hon Weng

MP for Yio Chu Kang

 Question No. 7119 

To ask the Minister for Health in light of recent changes to Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) by insurers, particularly in the adjustments to coverage for Class A and B1 policyholders (a) what measures are in place to ensure that insurers provide clear, timely and comprehensive communication regarding policy adjustments; and (b) how does the Ministry hold insurers accountable for lapses in informing policyholders adequately.

Answer

1                    Mr Speaker, may I have your permission to answer Q31 and 32 on today’s Order Paper? 

2                    Integrated Shield Plan (IP) are private commercial products subject to the Ministry of Health’s (MOH) requirements on key parameters such as the co-payment and deductible. Private insurers can make changes to their IPs such as in the claim limits and scope of coverage in accordance with the policy contractual terms and based on commercial and actuarial considerations. 

3                    In making these changes, MOH expects insurers to ensure that their policyholders’ interests and well-being are safeguarded. Together with the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS), we also require insurers to provide customers with clear, relevant and timely information on any changes to their policy terms and conditions, so that policyholders can make informed decisions. Under MAS’ insurance regulations, insurers must notify their policyholders of any change in policy terms and conditions at least 30 days before it takes effect.