I AM perplexed by the letters by Mr Chan Chong Pak ("Simple way to rein in abuse of health-care claims"; last Thursday) and
Mr Paul Chan Poh Hoi ("Clamp down on doctoring of claims"; last Friday). They appeared hasty in casting doubt on the integrity of our health-care practitioners.
Mr Chan's suggestions to create a Healthcare Fraud Bureau and introduce stringent and punitive legislation to deter abuses are excessive.
We cannot deny that there are bad apples in every profession, but it is onerous and time-consuming for health-care professionals to issue detailed invoices for all patients. Such a requirement will raise costs and, subsequently, medical charges.
From my experience, receipts will be issued only on request, particularly when the patient is making claims from his employer.
The booklet for members of the pioneer generation states clearly the health-care subsidies they can enjoy. Those claiming subsidies are also required to sign a form.
Is there any reason to require detailed invoices?
David Poon Soon Cheong
Mr Paul Chan Poh Hoi ("Clamp down on doctoring of claims"; last Friday). They appeared hasty in casting doubt on the integrity of our health-care practitioners.
Mr Chan's suggestions to create a Healthcare Fraud Bureau and introduce stringent and punitive legislation to deter abuses are excessive.
We cannot deny that there are bad apples in every profession, but it is onerous and time-consuming for health-care professionals to issue detailed invoices for all patients. Such a requirement will raise costs and, subsequently, medical charges.
From my experience, receipts will be issued only on request, particularly when the patient is making claims from his employer.
The booklet for members of the pioneer generation states clearly the health-care subsidies they can enjoy. Those claiming subsidies are also required to sign a form.
Is there any reason to require detailed invoices?
David Poon Soon Cheong
