Haze subsidy scheme for medical treatment to be revived tomorrow

SINGAPORE — Hazy conditions in Singapore are likely to persist for the next few days, fluctuating through the day, the Meteorological Service Singapore said. For the next 24 hours, the 24-hour Pollutant Standards Index is expected to be unhealthy and could enter the low end of the very-unhealthy range if denser haze is blown in by unfavourable wind conditions.

But an improvement could be seen by Friday — in time for the Formula One Grand Prix — as prevailing winds are forecast to blow from the south-east by then.

From tomorrow (Sept 16), the Haze Subsidy Scheme will be revived to help reduce medical costs for haze-related conditions for the elderly, the young (aged 18 and below) and lower-income Singaporeans, the authorities announced at a press briefing today. First introduced in 2013 when the haze hit record levels, under the scheme, pioneers pay no more than S$5 and others eligible pay no more than S$10 when they see participating healthcare providers for conditions such as asthma, conjunctivitis and allergic rhinitis. Those on public assistance will be fully subsidised.

Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong will kickstart distribution of packs containing items such as instant noodles, N95 masks and Vitamin C tablets to the more vulnerable groups tomorrow. By next Tuesday, 30,000 packs will have been distributed to people including the elderly living alone or with respiratory conditions, said the People’s Association.

The Manpower Ministry and its partners advise employers to have flexible work arrangements and take measures to protect employees from the haze. These include identifying susceptible employees and minimising prolonged strenuous outdoor work.