Coverage of Costs of TCM in Pioneer Generation Package

Ms Tin Pei Ling asked the Minister for Health whether the Pioneer Generation Package can cover costs of Traditional Chinese Medicine.

Mr Gan Kim Yong: The outpatient benefits offered under the Pioneer Generation (PG) package are designed to help our Pioneers better afford subsidised services (and from 1 January 2015, subsidised drugs) in public healthcare institutions, as well as at GP and dental clinics participating in the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS).

As Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a form of complementary medicine, PG subsidies do not apply at TCM clinics.

There are currently more than 40 charitable TCM organisations providing easy access to affordable TCM services in the community. Seniors who wish to seek TCM treatment may do so at these TCM clinics.