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Referral Process: Subsidy VS Private

Updated: Sep 26

One of the most common questions I usually get is,

“How do I get myself referred to my preferred doctor but under subsidy?”

Well, you don’t.


Subsidised patients are not allowed to pick their preferred doctor. If they insist, they have to ‘convert’ into private. This makes sense because we are paying for the expertise of the preferred doctor, who is usually a senior consultant specialising in the condition. But over the years, I managed to pick some useful tips and tricks that could help retain patients under subsidy because I can understand the financial impact Endometriosis has on patients, being one myself. Of course, these hacks don’t always work. Also, I might get into trouble sharing this so openly, so please don’t quote my name when trying out.


It is noteworthy to understand that getting referred to any PUBLIC HOSPITALS, also known as GENERAL HOSPITALS to some, DOES NOT mean you are automatically covered under subsidy. Our public hospitals have 2 types of medical care:


1) Private 2) Subsidy

Also, if you make an appointment directly with the hospital to see your preferred doctor, it is classified as private, too.

I charted below the referral process and the different medical charges (rough estimation) as simple as possible with the hope that many of us could benefit from it.


PERSONALISED CARE AT SUBSIDISED RATE FOUND!

*Please refrain from sharing or showing this information to anyone within the policy system, as they are not aware of this arrangement.


Typically, subsidised patients face restrictions in choosing their preferred healthcare provider, which often means settling for less personalised care. This gap sometimes leads to misdiagnoses and inadequate treatment, which no one should endure. We've been fortunate in the past with Dr. Ma Li at NUH, who went above and beyond by allowing us to direct patients to her under the subsidy system. She facilitated all necessary arrangements, ensuring more of you received the care you needed without the financial strain. As Dr. Ma Li transitions to the private sector, we find ourselves with a significant gap in the subsidised tier.


Recognising the difficulty many faces in affording private healthcare, we've tirelessly sought solutions within the subsidy system. The quest led us to a beacon of hope: Dr. Michelle Lim at the KK MIS Center. Dr. Michelle, an expert in Endometriosis, has graciously agreed to accept patients under the subsidised tier. Her involvement is a game-changer, enhancing the quality of care available to our community, both subsidised and private. We've heard countless stories of her compassionate, patient-centric approach, and we are confident that her acceptance will bring about a positive change in our healthcare system.



Please refer to the infographic attached for a step-by-step guide on accessing subsidised care. We are immensely grateful to Dr. Michelle for opening this pathway and ensuring that financial barriers do not prevent anyone from receiving the best possible care for such a complex and challenging condition.



Let's not just acknowledge but celebrate Dr. Michelle’s invaluable contribution to our community.


You can find the rest of the recommended doctors list here:


Your voice matters; together, we can continue building a supportive and understanding community. 💛


Wishing you always stay in good health with love and joy.

Keep winning Warriors!


UPDATES


26/09/2024


A New Chapter for Dr. Michelle Lim: Updates on Subsidized Care for Endometriosis


Dear Community,


It’s never easy to be the bearer of difficult news, but I want to be open and transparent with you about some recent developments. Last night, I received confirmation that Dr. Michelle Lim will transition to private practice. This shift leaves a significant gap in subsidised care for specialised Endometriosis treatment, which may be unsettling for many of you.


I understand how crucial it is to have access to specialised care, especially when navigating a chronic condition like Endometriosis. Please rest assured that Dr. Michelle is working on plans to continue seeing her subsidised patients at KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH) as a Visiting Consultant. However, the concrete details are still being finalised. I will share updates with all of you as soon as they are confirmed.


We’ve been incredibly fortunate over the years to have doctors like Dr. Ma Li and Dr. Michelle Lim, who went above and beyond by allowing patients to access subsidised care while providing personalised and expert attention. Typically, subsidised patients face limitations in choosing their healthcare providers, often leading to less personalised care and, in many cases, misdiagnoses or inadequate treatment—something no one should endure. By continuing to see subsidised patients despite their standing in the private sector, these doctors have shown true compassion and dedication to ensuring that even those with financial constraints receive the specialised care they need.


With both doctors now transitioning to private practice, I must be honest: at this moment, there are no other specialists within the subsidised tier across hospitals island-wide who I can confidently recommend for Endometriosis care.


I understand this is concerning, especially for those who rely on subsidised care. For those who can explore the private sector, I encourage you to do so. However, I fully recognise that this may not be financially feasible for everyone. In such cases, I hope the red flags and myths surrounding Endometriosis that E for Endometriosis has highlighted over the past decade have empowered you to advocate for your health and make informed decisions within the subsidised system.


That said, we are pleased to share that Dr. Michelle Lim will be moving to Mount Elizabeth Novena Hospital to open her new clinic, Nobel Obstetrics, Gynaecology and Minimally Invasive Surgery Centre, where she will soon begin accepting patients.


You can reach her for appointments at:

📱 WhatsApp: +65 9616 0045

Dr. Michelle’s new website will also launch on November 1st:

This site will provide more information about her practice and feature valuable educational resources.


While this transition may bring uncertainty, it also marks an exciting new chapter for Dr. Michelle. Please join us in congratulating her on this next step in her career. Even during this transition, her unwavering dedication to her patients is a testament to her commitment to ensuring the best care for all.


I understand this transition may cause uncertainty, and I deeply empathise with anyone anxious about the changes. Rest assured, I will update you on Dr. Michelle’s plans as a Visiting Consultant at KKH and continue advocating for better access to Endometriosis care for everyone.


While these changes may seem daunting, I truly believe that our community’s strength lies in our unity. Together, we’ve accomplished so much, and together, we will continue to break down barriers to proper care & understanding of Endometriosis.


Let’s move forward with the same resilience and determination that has brought us this far. By supporting one another and staying informed, we can continue to make strides toward a future where every person with Endometriosis receives the care and recognition they deserve.

 

Yours in support and solidarity,

Namira Mohamad Marsudi

Founder

E for Endometriosis

 


Care for Endometriosis


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