26/11/2025
IMPORTANT
https://www.straitstimes.com/singapore/health/spores-moh-moves-to-stamp-out-costly-health-insurance-riders-that-confer-absolute-peace-of-mind
Dear KWA Clients,
As we discussed during our past reviews, I had advised that “95% coverage” Shield riders were unlikely to be sustainable and that more out-of-pocket costs is expected to happen in the future. This has now been confirmed by MOH’s latest announcement (Straits Times, 26th Nov 2025) on Integrated Shield Plan riders, effective 1st Apr 2026.
Key changes for new Shield riders from 1st Apr 2026 :
✅ New Shield riders will no longer be allowed to cover the minimum deductible – you must pay at least S$1,500 per policy year before the Shield rider plan pays
✅ Depending on your ward class, the deductible can go up to around S$3,500, so this portion will always be out-of-pocket expenses
✅ The co-payment cap will be doubled from S$3,000 to S$6,000 per policy year
✅ This means that in a large claim year, your total out-of-pocket can be roughly S$7,500 to S$9,500 (deductible of S$1,500–S$3,500 + co-pay cap S$6,000)
✅ In return, new riders are expected to be about 30% cheaper than current riders, with lower annual premiums going forward
Great news is, some of you have already future-proofed your hospitalisation coverage based on my earlier advice — this recent move reinforces why we need to make the necessary changes to your existing hospitalisation coverage 👍
However, as a precaution, we’ll revisit this topic in your upcoming reviews to assess how this recent industry change will affect your existing IP Shield riders and ensure your hospitalisation coverage remain cost-efficient and comprehensive.
If you have any questions before our review, feel free to contact me directly ☺
Kelvin Wang & Associates 📈
Singapore's MOH is reforming health insurance riders to combat rising premiums and healthcare costs, introducing new rules from April 2026. Read more at straitstimes.com. Read more at straitstimes.com.
