health insurance - how does it work for a dependent spouse /

[bubbasx3]

hi
I am a little confused about health systems here in singapore. My husband has insurance through his company but myself and children are not covered i am searching for private health care for us, it seems incredibly expensive.

If something goes wrong accident wise, Can I use the local system on a dependent pass or do I need to have private health care. Does it cost a expat more at a local hospital as I notice that we can not join the government health programs if you are not a citizen or PR.

All a bit confusing as we have come from hong kong and australia and there if you have a employment / dependent you can use any hospital just as locals do.

Yes i want private health care for doctors visits etc but whilst i'm trying to sort out the different health care options I just need to make sure I know my options

[beppi]

You have to pay yourself for any consultation/treatment at any doctor, clinic or hospital. Foreigners are not subsidized (like locals are), but it still costs less than in other developed countries.
If you have an insurance, you can then claim all or part of it back from them.
Local insurances (e.g. NTUC Income) have reasonably priced plans with certain exclusions (e.g. only for hospitalisation and emergencies), international Expat insurances cost a lot more but cover more, too.
Very few or no insurance covers dentistry and child birth.

[bubbasx3]

thanks

[ray88]

You may want to get an insurance plan for yourself/child because foreigners will not be able to get any $$ help from govt. Moreover, private cost will definitely be more expensive.

Else, I think there are a few "insurance supplement" in the market that your husband can get. Some of those supplements do cover for family members.