text: Singaporeans’ basic hospitalisation needs are taken care of by MediShield Life; but this only covers hospitalisation in Class B2 or Class C wards.
  Consider enhancing this with an Integrated Shield Plan (IP). This gives you the option of healthcare in a Class A and B1 ward, in government of private hospitals.
  You may also need additional health insurance cover as there’s a “deductible” portion to insurance claims. This is the fixed amount that you must bear each year for your hospitalisation. On top of that, there is also a 10% co-insurance, after the deductible, that you will need to pay as well.
  The approved Integrated Shield Plans payouts will only kick in after you’ve paid the deductible and co-insurance. These can be covered by additional riders to the approved Integrated Shield Plans.
  Early detection of any illness can save your life. But early detection is meaningless, if you lack the money to pay for immediate medical intervention.
  If you discover a critical illness in its advanced stages, you’ll probably need drastic lifestyle changes. You may need a stay-in helper if your mobility is impaired, or you may need to cover the cost of expensive medical equipment.
  As such, singles must ensure that their critical illness payout covers their debt obligations over a prolonged period. The emergency fund is just a stopgap measure.
  Critical illnesses are not the only thing that could affect your lifestyle. You also have to consider the impact of accidents, which stop you from working. For example, if you sustain a back injury that lasts three to six months, and if that affects your work, the condition can cause a drastic drop in your income.