Use of MediSave for Root Canal Treatments for Seniors above Age 55

Ms Joan Pereira asked the Minister for Health whether the Ministry will consider allowing the use of MediSave to cover the costs of root canal treatment specifically for seniors above 55 years old.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Singaporeans requiring root canal treatment are eligible for subsidies at Public Healthcare Institutions and under the Community Health Assist Scheme (CHAS) at participating dental clinics. Furthermore, Pioneer and Merdeka Generation seniors enjoy additional subsidies. Subsidised patients who cannot afford their dental treatment after government subsidies can approach medical social workers to apply for financial assistance, such as MediFund.

Despite this, there have been calls for the Government to allow the use of MediSave for root canal treatment. We will review this suggestion. However, extensions of MediSave use need to be considered carefully, to strike a balance between increasing affordability and ensuring that our seniors have enough MediSave to meet their healthcare needs.