INSURANCE ENQUIRIES: DIRECT BILLING
Information About Insurance & Billing
At OncoCare, we understand that cancer treatment expenses can be a major concern for you and your loved ones. We are committed to supporting you with the necessary information on insurance and billing enquiries, so that you can optimise your financial resources.
As a member of the medical service provider panel for many local and international insurance companies and third-party administrators, we offer direct billing services for eligible patients. With direct billing, there is no need for you to pay upfront as we can facilitate the settlement of all hospital bills between us and your insurance provider.
We encourage you to refer to your personal or company insurance policies, or the relevant corporate websites, to confirm if direct billing services are available and if any co-payment is required. We strive to provide you with a seamless billing experience to ensure optimal care during your cancer journey, allowing you to better focus on your recovery.
Patients' Concerns on Insurance Matters
We are an accredited cancer centre for claims through MediShield, MediSave and Integrated Shield Plans, which are healthcare subsidies available to Singaporean citizens and permanent residents. More detailed information on such healthcare subsidies is provided on the Ministry of Health website.
MediShield Life
MediShield Life, a basic health insurance plan, helps to pay for large hospital bills and selected costly outpatient treatments, such as dialysis, radiotherapy, and chemotherapy for cancer.
MediSave
Medisave is a national medical savings scheme which helps individuals put aside part of their income into their Medisave Accounts to meet their future personal or immediate family’s hospitalisation, day surgery and certain outpatient expenses. Immediate family members can also use their Medisave Accounts to assist in paying the medical bills for patients.
Integrated Shield Plans
Many Singaporeans have opted to enhance their basic healthcare coverage by acquiring integrated private medical insurance policies, commonly known as Integrated Shield Plans, to receive medical treatment. An Integrated Shield Plan, approved by Medisave, is a type of medical insurance plan that provides supplementary benefits in addition to those offered by MediShield.
International Insurance Plans
If you have an international insurance plan that covers you globally, please contact your insurer to obtain information on your medical coverage. With a Letter of Guarantee, or credit arrangement with OncoCare, direct billing arrangement can be made with the insurer. This gives you the comfort of cashless treatment or you may only need to make payments for deductibles, co-payments and non-covered fees.
The international insurance include the following, but not limited to:
- Cigna International
- BUPA International
- Aetna International
- International Assistance (IA)
- International SOS
- Prestige International
- Vanbreda International
- AIA Platinum Health
- AXA GlobalHealth Plan
- Allianz
- Henner
- Aviva
- Prudential
If your insurance provider is not listed here, kindly reach out to us via email at enquires@oncocare.sg, and we will take care of the required arrangements.
Self-Pay
For enquiries, please send medical reports to our appointment team at enquiries@oncocare.sg. We should be able to give you a range of treatment costs, however, it should only be used as reference, as each patient’s condition is different.
Treatment plan & costs are usually discussed after our doctor sees the patient in Singapore and estimates how fit he/ she is.
We accept Cash in Singapore dollars, Credit cards, and bank transfer TT for treatment. Upon request, we will provide letters & instructions for bank transfer.
We don’t provide money exchange service but could help arrange for the money changer to meet you for currency exchange.
The Ministry of Health in Singapore has introduced the Cancer Drug List (CDL) to make cancer treatments and insurance premiums more affordable in the long run.
Starting from 1 September 2022, only treatments on the CDL will be covered by MediShield Life and MediSave. The CDL includes drugs that are paired with specific clinical indications, dosage forms, and strengths for which the drugs can be administered. Clinical proven treatments meet the required standards of safety, quality, and efficacy set by the Health Sciences Authority of Singapore (HSA), while cost-effective treatments provide clinical benefits that are proportionate to their costs.
For more information, please refer to the FAQs on the MOH website.
We have received requests from patients for transfer of care to OncoCare Cancer Centre. Every individual patient may have a different cancer situation and we can only provide general information to common questions here.
Please do contact us at enquiries@oncocare.sg for your specific cancers. We are able to direct you to one of our cancer specialists who has a specialist interest in your cancer type and advise you more specifically.
Insurance Panel Clinic Frequently Asked Questions
All OncoCare doctors are panel doctors of all local Integrated Shield Plan (hospitalisation & surgical) insurance providers, listed as follows:
- AIA ; HealthShield Gold Max
- HSBC Life (Previously known as AXA); HSBC Life Shield
- Great Eastern Life; Great SupremeHealth
- Singlife (Previously known as Aviva); Singlife Shield
- NTUC (Income Insurance); Enhanced IncomeShield
- Prudential Assurance; PruShield
- Raffles Health Insurance; Raffles Shield
- Our doctors will review and if appropriate, be able to facilitate the completion of your current course of chemotherapy / cancer treatment and provide the best care & recommendation along the way.
- We do carry the majority of cancer medications. However, if you are concerned about the availability of the cancer medication that you are on, please give us a call to any of our clinics, and we will be glad to assist you.
We understand the anxiety and urgency to be able to see an oncology specialist as soon as possible and will always make it an utmost priority to ensure first consultation appointments are arranged within the next working day and take place within 1-2 working days.
Commencement of chemotherapy / treatment is dependent upon various factors such as surgery resting period, blood test results, ongoing medication / treatment, etc. Our doctors will assess all factors carefully and under suitable conditions, chemotherapy / cancer treatment can be arranged to start on the same day or the following day in the clinic.
- Our doctors and clinic team will assist with financial counselling prior to each commencing course of chemotherapy / cancer treatment, to ensure that you receive the necessary information about possible out-of-pocket expenses.
- There are many options for cancer treatment nowadays and not just traditional chemotherapy. We can explore various options for patient care based on needs and coverage.
- More information can be found at https://www.moh.gov.sg/home/our-healthcare-system/medishield-life/what-is-medishield-life/what-medishield-life-benefits/cancer-drug-list.
To ensure our doctors are able to provide best possible recommendations and advice, please kindly ensure to prepare the following documents where possible:
- Referral letter/Medical report from current attending/referring doctor
- Biopsy, Histology, Cytology, Pathology reports
- Past medical reports/treatment information (cancer medication or chemotherapy given before is usually in the hospital or clinic bills)
- Laboratory blood tests reports
- Radiology scan reports such as CT scans, PET scans, MRI imaging tests
It is the most ideal to ensure that our doctor can review your full medical history and condition in providing the best possible care, advice, and opinion. However, our doctors also understand it might not be possible to obtain a full set of all medical reports, thus a thorough medical consultation will be conducted by the doctor on the first visit to gather all possible and vital information before making any recommendations to you.
We do have patients who were previously in the restructured hospital system who have continued care with us. They do so for various reasons. Many of our doctors are experienced and have served in the public restructured hospital system for many years in the past. We are often able to manage appointments and scans/ imaging efficiently with specialised focus on specific cancer interests for our doctors. Many cancer patients prefer to be able to identify their primary care oncologist doctor.
Absolutely not. As a panel doctor for leading insurance brands such as Great Eastern, Prudential, Singlife, HSBC, NTUC, AIA and Raffles Health Insurance, we are committed to providing the same high standard of care to all patients, regardless of their insurance coverage. Our dedicated medical professionals adhere to strict medical protocols and guidelines, ensuring that every patient receives the best possible treatment and care.
To ensure your insurance coverage is accepted, we recommend the following steps:
Verify Coverage: Contact your insurance provider to understand the specific coverage details outlined in your policy. Confirm whether OncoCare Cancer Centre is listed as a panel clinic under your policy.
Policy Review: Carefully review your insurance policy to familiarise yourself with the terms and conditions, coverage limits, and any pre-authorisation requirements. This will help you navigate the treatment process more effectively.
Pre-Authorisation: If your insurance policy requires pre-authorization for specific treatments or procedures, work closely with our team to gather the necessary documentation and submit it to your insurance provider for approval.
Communication: Maintain open communication with our team at OncoCare Cancer Centre. We will assist you in understanding and navigating the insurance process, ensuring that your treatment aligns with your coverage.
The coverage and payment terms for your medical treatment depend on your specific insurance policy. While we strive to minimise out-of-pocket expenses for panel patients, it’s important to review your policy to understand any co-payment, deductible, or other cost-sharing requirements. Our team will provide guidance and support, helping you navigate the financial aspects of your treatment.
Choosing a panel doctor like OncoCare Cancer Centre streamlines the insurance claims process in several ways:
Familiarity with Insurance Procedures: As a panel doctor, we have extensive experience working with various insurance providers. We understand their processes, requirements, and documentation standards, making it easier for us to assist you with your insurance claims.
Direct Billing: Our team can facilitate direct billing with your insurance provider, minimising the need for you to handle reimbursement paperwork. This saves you time and effort, allowing you to focus on your treatment and recovery.
Efficient Claims Processing: Through our established relationships with insurance companies, we strive to expedite the claims process. Our team will assist you in preparing and submitting the necessary documentation to ensure a smooth and efficient claims experience.
Benefits Of Getting Treatment From A Panel Clinic
Choosing a panel clinic like OncoCare for your healthcare needs offers numerous advantages that contribute to a smooth and hassle-free experience.
Convenience and Accessibility
Proximity to Patients’ Location: OncoCare’s strategically located clinics make it convenient for policyholders to access our services. We understand that minimising travel time and distance is essential for our patients’ comfort and convenience.
Availability of Appointments: As a panel clinic, we prioritise accommodating policyholders promptly. Our streamlined appointment booking process ensures that you can secure an appointment at a time that suits your schedule.
Seamless Billing Experience
Seamless Coordination: OncoCare maintains strong and direct partnerships with insurance providers, allowing for effortless coordination between our clinic and the insurance companies. Through our direct billing arrangement with many insurance providers, eligible patients are not required to make upfront payments. Instead, we handle all billing matters directly with the patients’ insurance providers. This close collaboration guarantees a seamless exchange of information, streamlining administrative processes and billing procedures effectively.
Simplified Billing and Claims Process: As a panel clinic, we have well-established procedures in place to facilitate billing and insurance claims. Our experienced team assists policyholders in understanding the billing process, preparing the necessary documentation, and submitting claims to the insurance provider on their behalf.
Assurance of Quality Care
Panel Clinics Meet Specific Criteria and Standards: OncoCare has met rigorous criteria and standards set by insurance companies to be designated as a panel clinic. This recognition reflects our commitment to providing high-quality care and maintaining stringent professional standards.
Expertise and Specialisation: Our team of medical professionals at OncoCare specialises in relevant medical fields, ensuring that policyholders receive expert care for their specific healthcare needs. We continuously update our knowledge and skills to deliver the latest advancements in cancer treatment and care.
Steps To Take As A Patient
We understand that navigating insurance coverage can sometimes be overwhelming. To help you make the most of your insurance benefits at OncoCare, here are some important steps to follow:
Verification of Insurance Coverage
Contacting the Insurance Provider: Reach out to your insurance provider to inquire about your policy’s coverage for specific medical treatments or procedures.
Confirming OncoCare as a Panel Clinic: Ask your insurance provider to confirm whether OncoCare is listed as a panel clinic under your policy. This ensures that you can receive covered treatments and services at our facility.
Appointment Booking
Explaining the Process: Our appointment booking process is designed to be convenient and efficient. Our friendly staff will guide you through the steps to secure an appointment that suits your schedule and treatment needs.
Providing Necessary Contact Information: We will provide you with the relevant contact information to schedule your appointment. Feel free to reach out to our dedicated team for any assistance or clarifications.
Initial Consultation and Documentation
Details about the First Visit: During your initial consultation at OncoCare, our medical professionals will conduct a thorough assessment of your condition, discuss treatment options, and address any concerns you may have.
Documentation Required for Insurance Claims: Our team will guide you on the documentation required for insurance claims. We aim to make the process as seamless as possible, assisting you in submitting the necessary paperwork to your insurance provider.
All Local Insurance Partners
At OncoCare, we believe in providing our patients with a wide range of choices when it comes to insurance partners. We have partnered with some of the leading insurance providers in Singapore, including AIA, Great Eastern, HSBC, NTUC, Prudential, Raffles Health Insurance, and Singlife. With such an extensive network of partners, we ensure that our patients have access to the best healthcare coverage, panel doctors and options available. Our commitment to offering a diverse range of insurance partners reflects our dedication to providing comprehensive and personalised cancer care for all our patients.
If your insurance provider is not listed here, kindly reach out to us via email at enquires@oncocare.sg, and we will take care of the required arrangements.
The AIA Quality Healthcare Partners (AQHP) network features over 500 private specialists in various medical fields, including OncoCare Cancer Centre. Benefit from pre-approval of medical bills, policy coverage clarifications, and easy appointment booking.
The Great Eastern (GE) Panel Doctor network features over 800 private specialists in various medical fields, including OncoCare. Benefit from pre-approval of medical bills, policy coverage clarifications, and easy appointment booking. Get up to 95% coverage for hospitalisation expenses at both private and restructured medical centres. Contact the Health Connect website or call its hotline at 6563 2233 for specialist recommendations and hassle-free appointment scheduling for specialist consultations at medical centres like OncoCare. Enjoy top-notch medical care tailored to your needs.
HSBC Life Shield is an integrated shield medical reimbursement plan that complements the Singapore MediShield Life plan, with high annual coverage limits. Through the partnership with OncoCare Cancer Centre, you can access high-quality oncology care from our senior medical oncologists.
IncomeShield by NTUC Income offers comprehensive healthcare coverage with added benefits for treatments from specialists within our Panel. NTUC Income Insurance partners with over 600 specialists across various fields in private practice, including OncoCare Cancer Centre. Experience exceptional service and comprehensive care.
Simplify your healthcare journey with Prudential’s PRUPanel Connect. Experience seamless access to top-quality healthcare, hassle-free appointment bookings, cashless transactions, and concierge services at participating hospitals and specialists such as OncoCare. Enjoy greater choice and continuity of care with their Extended Panel service, offering key benefits for eligible policyholders when seeing doctors from other insurers’ panels through Pre-Authorisation. Patients can book their first appointment online or call their PRUCustomer line for assistance.
Raffles Shield is a medical insurance plan in Singapore that protects you against unexpected medical bills and can be paid by MediSave. Through the partnership with OncoCare Cancer Centre, you gain access to additional benefits when seeking treatment from specialists within their Panel.
For Singlife policyholders, we advise reviewing your personal or company insurance policies to confirm your coverage at OncoCare. Our compassionate team is here to assist you, ensuring that your treatment is aligned with the coverage provided by Singlife.
