As Singapore deals with a surge in cases, the government says it will no longer pay medical bills of those who are “unvaccinated by choice” and contract COVID-19..Medical treatment for COVID-19 patients is currently covered by the government for all Singaporeans, permanent residents and long-term visa holders with the exception of those who tested positive soon after returning from overseas travel..“Progress in vaccination and boosters has contributed immensely to the tempering of COVID-19 cases. However, those who are not fully vaccinated continue to disproportionately make up the bulk of severe and ICU cases, and impose a strain on our healthcare system,” said a statement released by the Singapore Ministry of Health on Tuesday..Singapore’s fully-vaccinated rate sits at 85% within their eligible population, equating to some of the highest coverage rates in the world..The statement said: “Unvaccinated persons make up a sizeable majority of those who require intensive inpatient care, and disproportionately contribute to the strain on our healthcare resources..“Hence, from 8 December 2021, we will begin charging COVID-19 patients who are unvaccinated by choice,” applying to all unvaccinated patients admitted to hospitals..“COVID-19 medical bills for those who are ineligible for vaccination will still be fully paid for by the government, i.e., children under 12 years old or medically ineligible persons,” the statement continued..The Singapore Ministry of Health said their current ICU utilization rate was 69%. As of November 8, the ministry reported 2,470 new COVID-19 cases — 67 of which were in ICU — and 14 deaths..Melanie Risdon is a reporter with the Western Standard.,.mrisdon@westernstandardonline.com
