Forum: Employers not expected to cover MDWs’ medical treatment costs incurred overseas
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We refer to the letter “ Who pays for medical costs of domestic helpers injured overseas?
Employers have an important responsibility for the upkeep and maintenance of their migrant domestic workers (MDWs) while they are in Singapore. Medical emergencies can be distressing for anyone, and we understand that both employers and workers want clarity about their legal liabilities.
In Singapore, employers can have peace of mind knowing that the compulsory medical insurance that they purchase for their MDWs, with its annual claim limit of at least $60,000 per year, covers an estimated 99 per cent of inpatient bills. When MDWs travel overseas on their rest days or home leave, medical treatment abroad would fall outside the scope of an employer’s liability, and employers are not expected to cover it.
We encourage employers to have open communication with their MDWs and discuss rest day arrangements. They should advise their MDWs on the necessary precautions to take when making personal trips overseas, including purchasing travel insurance and establishing emergency contact procedures.
Doris Kuek
Director, Foreign Manpower Management Policy
Workplace Policy and Strategy Division
Ministry of Manpower
