The table below compares the premium rate for the integrated plans for non-subsidized wards (in public hospitals and private hospitals). 

I calculated the total premium for age 31 to 90 and showed the average premium per year. The actual premium varies according to age. The average premium is used as a basis of comparison.

The average premium for Medishield Life (provided by CPF) is $1,013.

The average premium for Plan A (private ward in public hospital) varies from $1,737(Income) to $2,443 (Singlife). Compared to Medishield Life, the ratio varies from 172% to 243%. 

On average, the cost of Plan A is slightly more than 2.05 times of Medishield Life.

The average premium for Private Plan (private hospital) varies from $2,966 (Income) to $4,557 (AIA). Compared to Medishield Life, the ratio varies from 293% to 450%. 

On average, the cost of Plan A is slightly more than 3.04 times of Medishield Life.

Difference in benefits
The different plans provide different benefits. It is likely that the more expensive plans offer better benefits than the less expensive plans. 

There are several dozen points of differentiation. It is difficult to summarize the different benefits and to create a score. 

The co-payment may also differ according to the different plans. 

However, the most important aspect is the access to the types of hospitals, i.e. public or private hospitals. 

Before choosing a more expensive plan, the policyholder should consider the difference in premium and decide if the features in the more expensive plan is worth paying the higher premium. 

Tan Kin Lian