Inaccurate article on MOH's conclusion on higher insurance claims
On 25 March 2018, a newspaper article by Ms Salma Khalik alleged that "the [Ministry of Health] MOH concluded that much of the higher claims was the result of overcharging and overtreatment by doctors in the private sector."
SMA immediately wrote to MOH to seek confirmation and clarification on the allegations relating to higher claims from policyholders with Integrated Shield Plans and full riders. MOH subsequently clarified in an official reply that "MOH has never drawn such a conclusion or made statements alluding to this view."
During this period, several SMA Council Members also met with a group of concerned SMA Members regarding the allegations. The false statement was subsequently clarified as incorrect by The Straits Times on 30 March 2018 in the "What It Should Have Been" section.
SMA will continue to be vigilant for fake news and advocate for both patients and members.
To view both SMA's letter and MOH's reply on this matter, please visit https://bit.ly/2r2PQCn.
Participation in the National General Practitioner Advisory Panel
SMA was invited by MOH to participate in the National General Practitioner Advisory Panel. The panel comprises private and public primary care providers, and is set up to develop strategies and support ongoing efforts and initiatives in primary care transformation.
SMA's 1st Vice President, Dr Wong Tien Hua, is currently SMA's representative on this panel.
Singapore Resuscitation and First Aid Council
The National Resuscitation Council and National First Aid Council have merged to form the new Singapore Resuscitation and First Aid Council (SRFAC), with effect from 1 April 2018.
A/Prof Lim Swee Han, SMA's current representative to the National Resuscitation Council, is now the chairman of the SRFAC. We would like to congratulate A/Prof Lim on his new appointment.
SMA seminar on useful tax pointers for doctors
The "Tax Obligations on Medical Practice" seminar was held on 31 March 2018 and was attended by 86 participants.
The participants were informed about tax obligations; possible business arrangements for clinics and their related tax implications; the latest Budget 2018 highlights; implementation of information technology systems; and services offered by the Employment and Employability Institute. Also covered were tips on how to better manage a medical practice, obligations for self-employed doctors and the importance of keeping proper records.
To find out more about courses organised by SMA, please visit https://bit.ly/2Fc8wED