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MediShield Life should include B1 hospitalisation coverage directly

There are increasing questions about the fairness of the pricing of premiums of Integrated Shield Plans (IP) when MediShield Life starts next year. (“Widen IP coverage to pre-existing conditions”; July 22)

There are increasing questions about the fairness of the pricing of premiums of Integrated Shield Plans (IP) when MediShield Life starts next year. (“Widen IP coverage to pre-existing conditions”; July 22)

The general expectation is that with MediShield Life taking on certain features now available only in the IPs, especially the unlimited lifetime claim limit, IP premiums should fall and not merely be kept unchanged.

It seems that for many people with an IP, the remaining sought-after feature is to have B1 hospitalisation coverage. IP insurers, under the authorities’ direction, are now working on a standardised B1 plan.

I would suggest instead that MediShield Life include B1 coverage directly, under an optional rider. It would be a straightforward inclusion, with premiums estimated easily.

MediShield Life would be more comprehensive, and mass demand would be met under one scheme. Insurance would be simpler. This should, by cutting out private insurers, also result in savings and, hence, reduce total premium costs.

IP insurers can continue to cover higher hospital classes and sell riders for 100 per cent claim coverage, inclusive of deductibles and co-payments, for the minority who want and can afford them.

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