FIRST, GET AN INTEGRATED SHIELD PLAN

Meant to complement Medishield Life, an Integrated Shield Plan gives you full coverage for hospital bills in wards up to Class A1 at local private hospitals, including payments you make for deductibles and co-insurance. A good Integrated Shield Plan kicks in from the moment symptoms develop and covers all the laboratory tests necessary for diagnosis.

Most of these plans cover cancer treatments approved by the Health Sciences Authority, and will cover you even if you’re stricken with cancer a second time. Of course, they’re also more expensive than basic health plans, and premiums increase as you get older.