Cataract Surgery in Singapore: Is It Covered by Your Insurance?

Overview of Singapore’s Health Insurance

MediShield Life is a basic health insurance plan administered by the Singapore government to help pay for large hospital bills and selected costly outpatient treatments, including dialysis and chemotherapy. It is compulsory for all Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents. Premiums for MediShield Life are fully payable using MediSave, and are adjusted based on age and other risk factors. 

Meanwhile, Integrated Shield Plans or IPs are additional private health insurance plans that Singaporeans can opt to purchase on top of MediShield Life. These plans have more comprehensive coverage, including access to private hospitals and higher ward classes in public hospitals. Part of the premium for IPs can be paid from MediSave; the rest must be paid out-of-pocket.

Meet our Medical Director: Dr Lim Wei Kheong Jimmy

MBBS, MMed (Ophth), MRCSEd (Ophth), FRCSEd (Ophth), FAMS

Factors that Influence Cataract Surgery Cost

When determining the costs of cataract surgery in Singapore, it’s crucial to get a good grasp of each cost component, so you can make a well-informed comparison and ensure that you are receiving a complete and fair assessment of the pricing.

Common Diagnostic Tests After Cataract Surgery

To ensure optimal recovery and determine the next steps following cataract surgery, your doctor will require follow-up tests and evaluations. These will likewise monitor the effectiveness of the procedure and check for any potential complications. Understanding the purpose each test serves can provide reassurance and clarity to those undergoing recovery.

Special Procedures Post-Cataract Surgery

Special treatments and follow-up procedures are designed to manage any arising complications. Interventions may include medications to reduce inflammation, with each step in the post-operative care protocol reinforcing the success of the initial surgery. Regular consultations with an ophthalmologist allow for ongoing adjustments and proactive management of your visual health.

• Anti-inflammatory and Antibiotic Eye Drops: commonly prescribed to prevent infection and reduce inflammation during the healing process.
• Secondary Cataract Treatment: Sometimes, the part of the natural lens that remains after surgery becomes cloudy, forming a secondary cataract. This is treated with a painless, quick laser procedure called YAG laser capsulotomy.
• Treatment for Macular Edema: If the macula swells post-surgery, it might require treatment with eye drops, injections, or, in rare cases, laser surgery. 
• Management of Dry Eye: Post-surgical dry eye symptoms can be alleviated with specific eye drops or minor procedures. 

Cataract Surgery Insurance

To sum it up, cataract surgery is generally covered by both public and private health insurance in Singapore. MediShield Life, the mandatory health insurance for all Singaporean citizens and permanent residents, provides basic coverage for cataract surgery when performed at public hospitals in lower ward classes. Those with Integrated Shield Plans (IPs), which are optional private insurance policies that offer additional coverage, may receive broader coverage, including higher ward classes and private hospitals depending on their specific plan details.

The extent of coverage, including deductibles and co-payments, can vary based on the specific insurance policy and whether additional private insurance riders have been purchased. It’s important for individuals to review their insurance plan details or consult with their insurance provider to understand the exact coverage and out-of-pocket costs associated with cataract surgery.

When undergoing surgery or hospital admissions, the process for claiming from MediSave is facilitated directly by the hospital where the procedure is performed. Patients do not need to handle the claims process themselves, as it is integrated into the administrative duties. More detailed information on how much can be claimed and what is covered can be found on the MOH website.

Cataracy Surgery in Singapore

At JL Eye Specialists, we strive to ensure a seamless and comfortable experience for our patients and their families. For international patients, we facilitate the entire medical journey—covering initial consultations (where we help determine the necessary length of stay and provide an estimate of medical costs based on the patient’s medical history and required surgeries); assisting with hospital admissions (including pre-admission cost estimations and guiding patients through the registration and admission processes).

For our ASEAN patients, excluding those from Myanmar, no visa is required to enter Singapore, while others should verify visa necessities through the Immigration & Checkpoint Authority website. Additionally, foreign patients can benefit from a GST refund on specific medications and optical aids, facilitated by our partnership with Global Tax Free.

Dr. Jimmy Lim is the Medical Director and Senior Consultant at JL Eye Specialists, with a specialisation in cataract surgery. He brings over 20 years of experience from his tenure as Senior Consultant and Deputy Head of Cornea and Refractive Surgery at Tan Tock Seng Hospital. His extensive training includes fellowships in the United States and Switzerland, focusing on complex aspects of cataract and corneal surgery. Dr. Lim is also active in medical education and research, contributing to advancements in visual function assessments and surgical outcomes. 

Schedule a consultation or call us at 6258-8966 for more information.