Hi. I am looking for ISP for my parents who are in their late 50s. I am looking at B1 ward coverage. What's the recommendation?

What is your main concern of not getting your parents at least an A ward coverage?

The premiums difference between an A plan and a B plan is a mere $362 per person annually at age 70 (based of Raffles Shield premiums) inclusive of a rider to reduce co-payments to 5%, further capped at $3,000/yr for treatment sought within panel.

You may want to see how the premiums differ below:

There are currently only 5 insurers including Raffles that provides "As Charged" coverage catered for up to B1 wards. In this comparison, I'll just compare 4 of them.

If budget isn't a huge concern to you and is still within your means, please consider getting them at least an A ward coverage for higher healthcare flexibility.

Main issue for Govt. Hospital is generally the long waiting time.

The lower the ward, chances are the longer the waiting time to be scheduled for treatment, unless critical situations.

You wouldn't want your parents to experience delayed treatments just because their condition isn't "severe enough". It might cost unecessary emotional or physical discomfort during the "waiting period".

Nevertheless, below is how 4 of the insurers compare based on B1 ward coverage:

Note: B1 wards are considered Non-subsidized wards.

For Govt Hosp treatment, I personally find the Pre- and Post-hospitalisation benefit extremely important due the long scheduling as mentioned earlier.

Ideally I'd want the standard 180 days pre and 365 days post which is what Insurer V offers.

Then looking at the premiums, Raffles Shield plan A would make even better sense to you.

Do note that the "Standard plans" does not offer As Charged coverage. If just offers a slightly higher limit as compared to our Medishield Life.

Hope it helps.​​​

Hey Anon, NTUC Enhanced Incomeshield Basic is my go to choice for clients above 50.

As charged benefit with 100 days pre and post hospitalization benefit and decent premiums for the classic care rider as well which gets rid of the deductible and caps the 10% co-insurance at $3000.