Critical illness insurance is a type of insurance policy that provides financial assistance in the event of a serious illness. In Singapore, where the cost of healthcare is high, critical illness insurance has become increasingly important.
According to a 2021 critical illness insurance study by Life Insurance Association Singapore (LIA Singapore), the average critical illness claim amount in Singapore is S$160,000. The top 5 critical illnesses that resulted in claims are:
- Cancer (40%)
- Heart attack (20%)
- Stroke (15%)
- Kidney failure (10%)
- Multiple sclerosis (5%)
The study also found that the number of critical illness claims has been increasing in recent years. In 2017, there were 10,400 critical illness claims in Singapore. This number increased to 12,000 in 2018 and 13,600 in 2019.
The increase in critical illness claims in Singapore is likely due to a number of factors, including:
- The aging population: The average age of Singaporeans is increasing, and this means that there are more people who are at risk of developing critical illnesses.
- The rising cost of healthcare: The cost of healthcare in Singapore is rising, and this means that it can be more difficult for people to afford the treatment they need if they develop a critical illness.
- The increasing awareness of critical illness: People are becoming more aware of the risks of critical illnesses, and this is leading them to take out critical illness insurance.
Critical illness insurance provides a safety net for individuals who are diagnosed with a serious illness. In Singapore, the cost of medical treatment can be exorbitant, and without insurance, individuals may find it difficult to afford the necessary treatment. Critical illness insurance provides financial assistance, which can help to ease the burden of medical bills and other related expenses. This is especially important for individuals who are the sole breadwinners of their families.
Secondly, critical illness insurance can provide peace of mind for individuals and their families. Knowing that they are protected in the event of a serious illness can alleviate stress and anxiety. This can be particularly important for individuals who have a family history of serious illnesses or who work in high-risk jobs.
Thirdly, critical illness insurance can help individuals to maintain their quality of life. Serious illnesses can often result in a loss of income and increased medical expenses. This can lead to a significant reduction in an individual’s standard of living. Critical illness insurance can provide financial assistance, which can help individuals to maintain their lifestyle and pay for necessary expenses.
Fourthly, critical illness insurance can also help to protect an individual’s savings and investments. Without insurance, individuals may have to dip into their savings or sell their investments to pay for medical expenses. This can have long-term financial consequences. Critical illness insurance can provide a safety net, which can help individuals to protect their savings and investments.
Finally, critical illness insurance can also provide tax benefits. In Singapore, premiums paid for critical illness insurance are eligible for tax relief. This can help to reduce an individual’s tax burden and provide additional financial benefits.
In conclusion, critical illness insurance is an essential form of insurance in Singapore. It provides financial assistance, peace of mind, and protection for individuals and their families in the event of a serious illness. With the rising cost of healthcare and the increasing prevalence of serious illnesses, critical illness insurance has become more important than ever. Individuals should consider purchasing a critical illness insurance policy to protect themselves and their families.
