Yes, you can use MediSave to pay for mammogram screenings if you're a woman aged 50 or older. This article delves into the specifics of using MediSave for mammograms, including eligibility, available subsidies, and the process for making a claim. Early detection is key to successful treatment. Book your mammogram with us today.
Understanding MediSave and Its Uses
MediSave is a national savings scheme in Singapore that allows individuals to set aside part of their income to cover personal or family-related hospitalisation, day surgery, and certain outpatient treatments.
Importance of Regular Mammogram Screenings
Breast cancer is the most common cancer among women in Singapore, but it has the highest survival rate compared to other common cancers, according to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021. Regular mammogram screenings, recommended every two years as part of health screenings for women, are crucial for early detection, which significantly increases the effectiveness of treatment.
Eligibility and Coverage
Who Can Use MediSave for Mammogram Screenings?
Women aged 50 and above are eligible to use their own MediSave or that of approved family members (such as spouses, parents, or children). Singapore Citizens and Permanent Residents can also claim from their siblings' or grandchildren's MediSave.
MediSave Coverage Limits
MediSave claims for health screenings, including mammograms, are permitted outside the Chronic Disease Management Programme (CDMP) framework. However, these claims are still subject to the same MediSave withdrawal limits, which vary based on your chronic health conditions:
| Type of Chronic Conditions | Coverage Limits (per year) |
|---|---|
| Complex (e.g., stroke or kidney failure) | Up to $700 |
| Non-complex (e.g., hypertension or high cholesterol) | Up to $500 |
Subsidies and Financial Assistance
The Health Promotion Board’s Screen for Life programme offers subsidies that reduce mammogram costs at various polyclinics. Here are the current out-of-pocket costs:
| Category | Price |
|---|---|
| Singapore Citizen | $50 |
| Permanent Resident | $75 |
| Merdeka Generation | $37.50 |
| Pioneer Generation | $25 |
The Singapore Cancer Society also provides free mammograms for women aged 50 and above with a valid Blue or Orange Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) card, who haven't been screened in the last two years.
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Using MediSave for Mammograms
1. Book your mammogram at an approved health centre or clinic participating in the
national screening programme.
2. Let the staff know of your intention to use MediSave.
3. Bring necessary documents:
- National Registration Identity Card (NRIC)
- Completed MediSave authorisation form
- Relevant medical reports or referrals (not always required)
Conclusion
Understanding the MediSave scheme and available subsidies allows you to make informed decisions about your mammogram screenings. Early detection is essential, and MediSave can make mammograms more affordable. Keep in mind that this article provides general information, so it's advisable to consult a doctor for personalised advice.
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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Women aged 50 and above can use MediSave to pay for mammogram screenings as part of the national health screening programme.
MediSave can be used to cover mammogram screenings for women aged 50 and above.
Yes, MediSave can be utilised for approved health screenings, including mammograms, colonoscopies, and screenings for certain chronic diseases.
The cost of a mammogram in Singapore varies. Under the Screen for Life programme, Singapore citizens pay $50, and Permanent Residents pay $75. Merdeka and Pioneer Generation card holders receive further subsidies. At ATA Medical, we offer Mammogram Screening at $201.65 for women aged 50 and above, inclusive of GST, payable via MediSave.
MediSave can be used for hospitalisation, day surgery, certain outpatient treatments, chronic disease management, health screenings, and specific vaccinations.
MediSave cannot be used for cosmetic procedures, experimental treatments, or health screenings that are not approved under the MediSave guidelines.
To book a mammogram at a polyclinic, contact the polyclinic directly or book through the Health Promotion Board’s Screen for Life programme. Be sure to bring your NRIC and MediSave authorisation form.
Women aged 50 and above are advised to undergo a mammogram every two years. However, consulting your doctor for personalised advice based on individual risk factors is recommended.
A mammogram is an X-ray of the breast that helps detect calcifications and early-stage breast cancer. A breast ultrasound uses sound waves to create images and is often used to investigate lumps found during a physical exam or mammogram.
Yes, MediSave can be used to cover the cost of CT scans if they are part of a medical treatment or diagnostic procedure.
Yes, MediSave can be used to cover the cost of colonoscopy procedures under the national health screening programme.
Yes, MediSave can be used to pay for X-rays if they are required as part of a medical treatment or diagnostic procedure.
Before a mammogram, avoid using deodorants, antiperspirants, powders, lotions, or perfumes on your breasts or underarms, as these can appear as white spots on the X-ray.
Women are generally advised to begin regular mammogram screenings at age 50, with screenings every two years. However, women aged 40 and above should discuss the benefits and limitations of starting annual screenings with their doctor. Those with a family history or other risk factors should also seek personalised advice.
It can take up to two weeks to receive mammogram results because radiologists need time to thoroughly examine the images and ensure accurate readings, especially if further comparison with previous images is required.