Should MediShield Life premiums be based on lifestyle?

The answer is not straightforward for a number of reasons.

While the idea of a differentiated insurance premium based on lifestyle appears reasonable, there are many practical issues to consider. PHOTO: ST FILE
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Minister for Health Ong Ye Kung recently said that the Government was looking at ways to help support healthcare in Singapore as the population ages.

Among other things, he referred to using behavioural economics to nudge people to adopt healthier lifestyles, such as by “differentiating insurance premiums between those with and without appropriate lifestyles”.

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