There’s no denying how much of a lifesaver telemedicine can be when you’re too sick to crawl out of bed to head to the nearest clinic. With a quick video call, you can get diagnosed by a doctor, be prescribed an MC, and go back to sleep while waiting for your medicine to be delivered.

However, as with many things, telemedicine services have also been abused. A notable example is the case of MaNaDr Clinic, a telemedicine provider whose license was revoked in October 2024 for allegedly breaching ethical guidelines.

Despite these challenges, telemedicine has proven its value and is here to stay. Its convenience, accessibility, and potential to transform healthcare make it an essential part of modern medicine.

What is Telemedicine?

Telemedicine refers to the delivery of healthcare services remotely using technology. It allows patients to consult doctors, receive diagnoses, and get prescriptions without visiting a clinic or hospital.

There are several types of telemedicine services available, including:

• General Practitioner (GP) consultations for minor ailments like colds or rashes.
• Specialist consultations for follow-ups or advice on chronic conditions.
• Chronic disease management, including regular monitoring and medication adjustments for conditions such as diabetes or hypertension.
• Mental health consultations for therapy or counselling sessions.
  
  

The benefits of telemedicine are undeniable. It saves time by reducing travel and waiting room hours, improves access to healthcare for individuals in remote areas or those with mobility issues, and limits exposure to infections by minimising physical visits to clinics.

The Growth of Telemedicine

Telemedicine has grown rapidly in Singapore, offering remote healthcare consultations through apps, video calls, and chat platforms. From app-based services to hospitals offering teleconsultations, the growth of telemedicine has been driven by the Covid-19 pandemic and demand for convenient healthcare.

As telemedicine becomes more mainstream, health insurance providers in Singapore have adapted by including teleconsultation coverage. This ensures that patients can access care without worrying about out-of-pocket costs. Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) and other insurance policies now recognise telemedicine as a valid healthcare option, making it an essential feature in modern health insurance.

How Telemedicine is Covered by Insurance in Singapore

Some Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) now include teleconsultation coverage for GP and specialist visits. These plans also often cover follow-ups for chronic conditions, ensuring comprehensive care. However, claim limits and coverage specifics may vary, so policyholders should carefully review their plans to understand the details.

Insurance companies that provide coverage for teleconsultation include Prudential, AIA, Income, Great Eastern, HSBC Life SG, Singlife, and FWD.

Beyond IPs, other insurance policies also provide telemedicine coverage. Some plans include outpatient benefits for mental health teleconsultations, while Personal Accident and Critical Illness Plans may cover telemedicine services for injury follow-ups or condition monitoring.

Certain corporate insurance policies also include telemedicine services.

When using telemedicine, it’s crucial to check your insurance policy. Confirm if your provider supports specific telemedicine platforms, review limits on claims, such as caps on the number of visits, and be aware of any exclusions that might apply.

Transforming Access to Healthcare

Telemedicine has the potential to address significant barriers to healthcare access. For those unable to travel to see a doctor or have limited mobility, telemedicine offers a convenient and quick option for a first diagnosis.

In addition to faster consultations, telemedicine has expanded access to mental health services. Therapy and counselling sessions can now be conducted remotely, providing much-needed support to individuals who might otherwise avoid in-person visits due to stigma or logistical challenges.

Telemedicine is also transforming chronic disease management. Patients with long-term conditions such as diabetes or hypertension can benefit from routine monitoring, medication reviews, and medical advice through teleconsultations, reducing the need for frequent clinic visits while maintaining the quality of care.

Considerations for Using Telemedicine

While telemedicine is highly convenient, knowing when it’s appropriate is important. It is ideal for non-urgent medical needs such as minor illnesses, medication refills, or follow-up consultations.

However, heading to a hospital should be the first course of action for emergencies, physical injuries, or conditions requiring diagnostic tests like blood work or imaging.

Understanding the claim limits and coverage is also key. Policyholders should understand their insurance plan’s co-payment structure and claim processes. Using the approved telemedicine platform is crucial to avoid claim rejections.

The Future of Telemedicine in Singapore

Telemedicine is increasingly integrated into health insurance policies, reflecting its growing acceptance within the healthcare ecosystem. Emerging technologies such as AI-driven diagnostics and wearable devices for real-time health monitoring are set to enhance telemedicine further, promising greater convenience and accuracy in care delivery.

Additionally, telemedicine promotes preventive care by enabling regular check-ins and early detection of health issues. This not only reduces the risk of severe conditions but also fosters a culture of proactive healthcare management.

Know Your Coverage Before You Need It

Telemedicine is revolutionising healthcare by making it more accessible, efficient, and patient-centric. Health insurance now includes telemedicine benefits, allowing policyholders to enjoy its convenience without worrying about high costs.

To maximise this innovation, reviewing your insurance policy and understanding how it supports telemedicine services is important.