My dad was born in 1933. 81 yrs old. This is His Pioneer Package. During His younger years He was a white supporter and big fan of 'Old man Lee'. With an open mind when I visited Him just now, I asked Him how He felt of the govt of SG's gift? This was His answer :'' I do not understand what the booklets inside are talking about. Too complicated'' I then went through the booklets and explained to Him. Being born in 1934 and earlier He was entitled to maximum $800- medisave top up annually. Dad replied :''Medisave no use la. Only allow limited use. I went for my cataract surgery cost $1K+, I had no money still I had to fork out cash to pay half.
The balance all these years govt deducted for the govt medical insurance.'' I then told dad if He visited the selected clinics mentioned in the booklet, eg: usual consultation of common colds or cough, per visit govt will subsidise up to $28.50ct.'' Assuming a visit to GP clinic costs $55–, so thats about 50% subsidy. Dad replied :''I can't walk well, if I take a taxi to the clinic how much I must pay now ? $10 or $15 ? And I still need to fork out half the clinic fees. But son, don't worry about me, I'm trying not to see doctor even I'm a little sick.''.
The moral of the story is, why don't the old folks be given some hard cash in the event that they can't fork out even half the clinic fees? From the bottom of our hearts, Me and my Dad sincerely thank the Republic of Singapore govt for their generous package to honour the pioneers.
Christopher Siow