National Healthcare Group Polyclinics has created a self-funded scheme to help needy patients. As this is a relatively new scheme, we had started by having a short review period for patients to gauge the demand. It is clear from Ms Tham's experience that we will need to lengthen the coverage for some patients.

At Tan Tock Seng Hospital, financial assistance for needy patients is given via Medifund. There is currently no link between the two schemes but we are working on a computer system to do this.

We apologise to Mr Hong and Ms Tham for the misunderstanding and inconvenience experienced. With this feedback, we will conduct a review with a view towards a longer extension of the waiver for needy patients. Specifically for Ms Tham, we are looking to review her case to extend her waiver.

We have contacted Mr Hong to assist him towards finding a suitable solution. Should he require any further assistance, he may contact Ms Lee Theng from our Patients Relations Services on 6357-7778.

Joycelyn Ling (Ms)
Deputy Director, Operations
Tan Tock Seng Hospital

Dr Meenakshi Sundararaman
Head, Toa Payoh Polyclinic
National Healthcare Group Polyclinics