REVIEW ON INTEGRATED SHIELD PLAN DISTRIBUTION MODEL AND IMPACT ON OVERALL HEALTHCARE COSTS

NOTICE PAPER NO. 782

NOTICE OF QUESTION FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

FOR THE SITTING OF PARLIAMENT ON 05 MAY 2026

Name and Constituency of Member of Parliament

Mr Yip Hon Weng

MP for Yio Chu Kang

Question No. 1396

To ask the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether the Ministry will review the current Integrated Shield Plan distribution model, including commission structures, to assess their impact on overall healthcare costs; and (b) whether a direct-purchase insurance model can be introduced to cut out costs incurred from agent commission and to lower the costs of insurance premiums.

Answer

1               The bulk of premiums increases for Integrated Shield Plans (IP) are due to claims. Commissions constitute a small part of premiums.  Financial advisors play a useful role to help consumers to assess and choose suitable insurance plans according to their needs.  Insurers are free to introduce other distribution channels.