Forum: Improve effective access to medical investigations for everyone
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At the outset, I would like to affirm that the emphasis on prevention in our healthcare system is a good thing, especially as Singapore is ageing. Also, I would acknowledge that Singapore has a good overall healthcare system.
But I want to point out that effective access to quick intervention and therefore prevention of serious illnesses is not on a level field for every Singaporean.
Doctors have already pointed out the disparity between those who have private health insurance and those who do not, in terms of this accessibility.
Also, doctors face the problem of insurance companies being reluctant to allow claims for a biopsy which may confirm cancer when doctors feel that such a biopsy is necessary, but face the dilemma of pursuing this because the patients may not be able to finance it.
Such doctors also face the threat of removal from the panel of the insurance company (Doctors caught between insurers and doing best for patients, July 25).
Although we have a good public healthcare system, the current process for quick investigation and treatment can be improved.
Those patients suspected of serious illness and who cannot afford referral to private specialists have to be referred to public hospital specialists through the polyclinic (as referrals from private doctors and general practitioners would mean a higher cost subsequently for the patient).
It may take some time before they get to see the specialist through the polyclinic. Also, investigations may stretch over a long period with many follow-ups over weeks.
By the time a serious illness is finally diagnosed, it may have gone on to an advanced stage.
Those who can afford to, can have their referrals and investigations done rather swiftly in private hospitals and early intervention may give a better prognosis.
I am not sure how this can be resolved, but I would like to highlight this problem on behalf of patients who feel they may fare worse because they cannot afford to have private insurance or lack the finances for quick investigations and treatment.
Quek Koh Choon (Dr)
