In recent years, mental health has received growing recognition in Singapore, prompting improvements in insurance coverage for related treatments. 

As awareness increases, more insurers are offering plans that include mental health benefits. Understanding the available options is essential for securing the right support and ensuring access to care without financial strain.

Learn more: Health Insurance In Singapore >>

MediShield Life and Integrated Shield Plans

MediShield Life, Singapore’s universal health insurance, provides coverage for inpatient psychiatric treatment. Policyholders can claim up to S$160 per day, for a maximum of 60 days per policy year. However, this coverage is primarily for treatments in B2 or C class wards in public hospitals. 

Source: Ministry of Health

For those seeking care in higher-class wards or private hospitals, Integrated Shield Plans (IPs) offered by private insurers can supplement MediShield Life. It’s important to note that while IPs enhance hospital coverage, they may not extend to outpatient mental health services.

Private Insurance Plans with Mental Health Benefits

Recognizing the importance of mental health, several insurers have introduced plans that include coverage for mental health conditions:

AIA Beyond Critical Care: Launched in 2019, this plan offers protection against critical illnesses and five mental health conditions: Major Depressive Disorder, Schizophrenia, Bipolar Disorder, Obsessive-Compulsive Disorder, and Tourette Syndrome (up to age 21). The policy provides an additional 20% of the coverage amount, up to S$50,000 per claim, until the age of 75.

Learn more: AIA Beyond Critical Care

SNACK Self Care Pack by Income: For S$9.90 monthly, this plan covers psychiatric consultations and psychotherapy sessions. Policyholders can claim up to S$200 monthly for psychiatric consultations (capped at 50% per receipt) and up to S$500 monthly for psychotherapy.

Learn more: Mental Health Insurance

Employer-Provided Mental Health Coverage

Employers in Singapore are increasingly acknowledging the importance of mental well-being. Some companies offer Employee Assistance Programs (EAPs), providing confidential counseling services and support. Additionally, certain corporate insurance policies now include mental health benefits. 

For instance, starting in 2025, AIA Singapore will expand its corporate plans to cover inpatient mental health treatments fully, up to the plan’s maximum limit.

Considerations When Choosing Mental Health Coverage

When evaluating health insurance plans for mental health coverage, consider the following:

• Scope of Coverage: Determine whether the plan covers both inpatient and outpatient treatments.
• Claim Limits: Be aware of any caps on claimable amounts for mental health services.
• Premium Costs: Assess whether the benefits align with the premium expenses.
• Exclusions: Review any specific conditions or treatments that the policy does not cover.