Written Answer to PQ on Measures to raise awareness of medical insurance for Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs)

NOTICE PAPER NO. 2528 OF 2024 FOR SITTING ON OR AFTER 6 FEBRUARY 2024
QUESTION NO. 5393 FOR WRITTEN ANSWER

MP: Mr Zhulkarnain Abdul Rahim

To ask the Minister for Manpower (a) in cases where employers of foreign domestic helpers are unable to afford the medical or hospitalisation expenses of their employees, whether the employer may use part of his savings in his CPF MediSave account to pay for such expenses; and (b) what are the measures to help raise awareness among potential employers on the importance of comprehensive medical and hospital insurance coverage for their domestic helpers.

Answer:

Medisave is intended to help Singapore Citizens and Singapore Permanent Residents meet their healthcare needs especially in old age. It cannot be used to pay for bills incurred by their Migrant Domestic Workers (MDWs).

2. Employers of MDWs are required to purchase medical insurance with an annual claim limit of at least $60,000. This is sufficient to cover about 99% of all hospital bills for MDWs. Employers can also purchase more comprehensive medical insurance to cover larger hospital bills.

3. The Ministry of Manpower informs prospective employers of the requirement at the point of work permit application and during the mandatory Employer’s Orientation Programme. We also remind current employers through various channels such as the media, our website, employment agencies, and electronic direct mailers.