Pioneer subsidy does apply at family physician clinics in polyclinics

MOH's Reply

Straits Times Online, 25 October 2014

Pioneer subsidy does apply at family physician clinics in polyclinics

Mr Ronnie Lim suggested that pioneer generation subsidies should apply at family physician clinics in polyclinics ("Pioneer Generation card should cover family physician treatments"; Forum Online, Oct 14).

We have contacted Mr Lim to share that the Pioneer Generation subsidy of 50 per cent off subsidised services does apply at the family physician clinics in polyclinics. This is on top of the standard subsidy that all Singaporeans can receive at familt physician clinics.

Lim Bee Khim (Ms)
Director, Corporate Communications
Ministry of Health

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Forum Letter

Straits Times Online, 14 October 2014

Pioneer Generation card should cover family physician treatments

When the Ministry of Health first set up family physician clinics within polyclinics, patients with chronic conditions like hypertension and diabetes were encouraged to register with such clinics so their treatments could be monitored by the same doctor.

Patients were told of the benefits of being treated by the same doctor. Many followed the advice and have been seeing their family physicians for years.

Over the years, the gross consultation fee for a visit has gone up to $54. Even after the government subsidy, the cost is $29.20, compared with about $20 charged by neighbourhood general practitioners.

I was delighted to receive my Pioneer Generation card, but the feeling was short-lived as I was told it would not cover visits to polyclinic family physicians.

Many pioneers are upset as they will have to "downgrade" and see non-family physicians if they want to enjoy the pioneer generation benefits.

Is the Government really sincere about helping the pioneer generation?

Ronnie Lim