HI Integrated Shield Plans 2

Question 1

What is a 'panel' vs 'non-panel' hospital in the context of Singapore IPs?

Accepted Answer

Panel hospitals have agreements with the insurer for pre-approved rates; non-panel hospitals may result in lower coverage or require out-of-pocket top-ups

Answer

No difference exists

Answer

Panel hospitals are government-run only

Answer

Non-panel hospitals are always cheaper

Question 2

What is the 'as-charged' vs 'as-incurred' approach in IP claims?

Accepted Answer

As-charged plans cover the actual hospital bill; as-incurred plans reimburse based on fixed schedules or limits per procedure

Answer

They are identical

Answer

As-charged is always cheaper

Answer

As-incurred covers more

Question 3

Why do IP premiums increase with age in Singapore?

Accepted Answer

Because the risk of illness and hospitalisation increases with age, requiring higher premiums to cover the higher expected claims

Answer

To increase insurer profits

Answer

Premiums actually decrease with age

Answer

Age does not affect premiums

Question 4

What is the MOH fee benchmarks initiative for IP claims?

Accepted Answer

Publishing fee benchmarks for common surgical procedures to improve price transparency and help manage claims costs in private healthcare

Answer

Setting fixed prices for all treatments

Answer

Banning expensive treatments

Answer

Only applicable to public hospitals

Question 5

What is 'guaranteed renewability' for Integrated Shield Plans in Singapore?

Accepted Answer

The insurer cannot refuse to renew the policy based on the policyholder's health condition, subject to premium adjustments

Answer

The insurer can refuse to renew at any time

Answer

The premium is guaranteed never to increase

Answer

The plan automatically converts to MediShield Life at age 65

Question 6

What reforms has MAS introduced to make IP premiums more sustainable in Singapore?

Accepted Answer

Co-payment requirements for riders, managed care programmes, panel hospital arrangements, and fee benchmarks to reduce claim inflation

Answer

No reforms have been made

Answer

Banning all private hospital coverage

Answer

Capping all premiums at SGD 100/month