Cataract is the most common eye condition in Singapore and one of the leading causes of vision loss worldwide. The only way to treat cataracts is through cataract surgery. It is performed on an outpatient basis so you can go home after the surgery. The procedure usually takes 30 minutes to complete.
While cataract surgery is a day procedure, it is claimable through Medisave claimable, subject to the approved surgical limit. In addition, if you have an Integrated Shield Plan (IP), it can cover your cataract surgery expenses. Note that co-payments, deductibles, and pro-ration rates vary by insurance policy. Corporate insurance can also be utilized by obtaining pre-approval or a letter of guarantee (LOG) from your company’s insurance provider. You can contact your HR personnel for details.
How much Medisave can be used for cataract surgery?
Eligible Singaporeans and Permanent Residents can claim up to $2450 per eye from their Medisave account or a family member’s account.
What is the process for utilizing my Medisave for cataract surgery?
You must complete the medical claim authorization form (MCAF) at the outpatient surgery center or hospital of your choice/affiliation. The surgical facility will handle the rest of the administrative work. The surgical facility or hospital will notify you of any remaining balance not covered by your insurance and/or Medisave, which you can pay using cash or credit card.
Can I use my Integrated Shield Plan (IP) for cataract surgery?
Integrated Shield Plans (IP) are private insurance plans that you can choose to add to your basic MediShield Life plan. Depending on your IP choice, there will be additional coverage for B1 and A-class wards in public and private hospitals.
If you have purchased a rider for your Integrated Shield Plan (IP), the claimable amount may vary. Do take note that co-payments, deductibles, and pro-ration rates apply; they vary for every insurance policy. A pre-authorization or letter of guarantee is typically obtained before the procedure to confirm coverage.
What’s the procedure to use your Integrated Shield Plan for cataract surgery?
The process to use your Integrated Shield Plan is simple, and can be performed concurrently with the process required to use your medisave for the surgery. Once again, you have to first fill up the medical claims authorisation form. After which, you will need to pay a deposit (the amount of deposit required depends on the type of IP you have) via cash or credit card.
Again, the rest of the administrative work will be done by the clinic after your surgery, where an e-file will be performed to claim the amount from your IP and/or Medisave. If your insurance has full coverage, the deposit paid earlier will then be refunded to you in a few months.
Can I use both Medisave and Integrated Shield Plan (IP) concurrently for my surgery?
Yes, you can use MediSave along with your Integrated Shield Plans (IP), up to prevailing limits per procedure. Please note that Integrated Shield plans (IP) and other insurances are subject to deductibles, co-insurance, and pro-rations based on your policy. A pre-approval or pre-authorization request should be submitted at least 2 weeks before your surgery for coverage estimation.
Estimate your out-of-pocket expenses after using your medisave and IP:
Fill in the fields according to your policy plan and estimated cataract surgery cost.
For example:
Cataract surgery cost | $10,000 |
---|---|
Deductible (for private hospital) |
$3,500 |
Co-insurance | 5% (of the total cost) = $500 |
Total out-of-pocket | $4,000 ($3,500 deductible + $500 co-insurance) |
Medisave claimable limit for cataract surgery | Up to $2,450 |
Nett out-of-pocket cost | $1,550 (payable by cash or credit card) |
*Treatment cost used in the example is only for easy illustration, it does not reflect the actual cataract surgery cost.
**This example will not be applicable for individuals with no Integrated Shield Plan.
Do all Integrated Shield Plans cover private hospital services?
Yes, all integrated shield plans include coverage for private hospital services. However, the coverage amount depends on the plan you buy. Different insurers will have a slightly different percentage in terms of coverage.
If you are intending to go for a cataract surgery but remain uncertain about your Integrated Shield Plan coverage, or if you would like to know the estimated payable amount after the Medisave and Integrated Shield Plan coverage, please contact our friendly Patient Relation Coordinator.
Book an appointment for cataract surgery at LSC Eye Clinic
Tel: +65 6836 1000
Whatsapp: +65 9843 1000
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Email: [email protected]
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Saturday: 9am to 4pm
*Last Registration Time 2pm
Sunday & PH: Closed