Regulate supply side of healthcare services

It is widely acknowledged that moral hazard exists in the overconsumption of health services among those who have little out-of-pocket expenses (“‘Significant contrast’ in treatment inflation between public and private hospitals” (Oct 14).

There are two sides to consider. On the demand side, as Singaporeans become more affluent, people are looking to improve their quality of life through preventive health measures, such as exercise, dietary control and our Government’s health promotion efforts.

No one wants to be ill just because the healthcare cost is of no consequence.

What is the point of going for a free buffet of medical treatment and not leading our lives properly?

I would therefore opine that the “undesirable behaviours” are attributable to the supply side: Private healthcare providers, which have shareholders to answer to and investments to recover.

Patients, knowing that they cannot claim for outpatient services, would rather choose inpatient care. The onus is thus on the healthcare provider to reject such requests.

There must also be a more robust system of administering claims to ensure that loopholes are plugged to prevent private healthcare providers from over-servicing or over-treating patients.

I hope, therefore, that residents who buy integrated plans and riders for peace of mind are not penalised in the event of adverse health conditions. All of us want to enjoy a life of quality.