Another group of people who will be unfairly penalised by the ElderShield proposals are those who have worked hard all their lives to maintain good health and have chosen to opt out of the scheme (Panel wants to expand ElderShield coverage; Jan 31).
The current system of putting the onus on individuals to stay healthy to minimise healthcare expenditure should remain.
Policymakers should develop more incentives to encourage people to take better care of their health, such as going for regular health screening; incentivising those with normal health-screening results; giving no-claim discounts for MediShield Life, like in motor insurance policies; motivating more citizens to participate in the National Steps Challenge; and making healthier food more affordable.
Individuals who maintain good health by sticking to a good diet and exercising regularly through hard work and discipline should be rewarded instead of having to bear the cost of insuring those who have poor diets, lead a sedentary lifestyle and indulge in vices like smoking and excessive alcohol intake.
Such people are more likely to end up with diseases and disabilities, and should not expect healthier people to pick up the tab.
A universal healthcare scheme and safety net must be just and equitable and encourage healthy behaviours.
Liu I-Chun (Ms)
