How to File a Medical or Hospitalisation Claim in Singapore: A Step-by-Step Guide

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🏥 Introduction: Why Knowing the Claim Process Matters

If you’re living in Singapore and have a hospitalisation or medical insurance policy—be it MediShield Life, an Integrated Shield Plan, or private health insurance—it’s crucial to understand how the medical claim process works. Filing your claim correctly ensures that you get reimbursed quickly and avoid delays or rejections.

In this article, we break down the step-by-step guide to filing a medical or hospitalisation claim in Singapore, along with pro tips and common mistakes to avoid.

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📋 What Types of Medical Insurance Claims Can You File in Singapore?

Before jumping into the process, it’s helpful to know what you can claim under:

✅ Common Claim Types:

• Hospitalisation (Inpatient) Claims – Room, board, surgery, ICU, etc.

• Day Surgery Claims

• Outpatient Specialist Claims (for some policies)

• Pre- and Post-Hospitalisation Benefits

• MediSave Claims

• MediShield Life / Integrated Shield Plan Claims

Read more: How your pre-exisiting medical conditions can affect your insurance application

Read more: Why you should buy your insurance coverage while you are still healthy

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🧾 Step 1: Understand What Your Policy Covers

Different insurers offer different levels of coverage. Before filing a claim:

• Review your policy documents or your Insurer’s customer portal.

• Check if your claim falls under MediShield Life, an Integrated Shield Plan (IP), or private health insurance.

• Confirm if the treatment is at a panel hospital or private specialist, as this may affect your claim eligibility.

Interestuguru.sg Tip 1: Each insurer have their panel of specialist, go for their panel specialist for better coverage.

Interestguru.sg Tip 2: Obtain an LOG before your hospialisation to make sure your bills are fully covered for a peace of mind.

Read more: 4 Best Integrated Shield Plans for hospitalisation coverage

📑 Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Most insurers in Singapore will require the following:

• Hospitalisation Bill / Invoice

• Medical Report or Discharge Summary

• Claim Form (download from your insurer’s website)

• NRIC / Passport Copy

• Referral Letter (for specialist consultations)

• Doctor’s Memo stating diagnosis and treatment received

For integrated shield plan, claims are done via electronic filing (e-file) via the hospital, so please remember to inform the admission office that you have an integrated shield plan and which insurer is it from. 

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💻 Step 3: Submit Your Medical Claim

There are typically 3 ways to submit a hospitalisation claim in Singapore:

1. E-Filing by Hospital

If you’re using MediShield Life or an Integrated Shield Plan, the hospital usually e-files your claim directly with CPF Board or your insurer.

• Ask the hospital admission counter to help you with insurance e-submission.

• You will receive an Insurance Letter of Guarantee (LOG) if approved in advance.

2. Self-Submission via Online Portal

For private insurance claims or outpatient claims:

• Log in to your insurer’s online claim portal.

• Upload scanned documents and fill in required fields.

• You’ll receive a confirmation email.

3. Manual Submission

For certain older policies or non-digital claims, you may need to:

• Download and print the claim form

• Submit via post or visit the insurer’s customer service branch

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🕒 Step 4: Wait for Processing & Reimbursement

Typical timelines:

• Integrated Shield Plans: 14–30 working days

• Private health insurance: 10–20 working days

• MediSave Claims: Up to 21 working days (via CPF)

You’ll usually receive:

• A claim status notification via email or SMS

• Reimbursement to your bank account or deduction from the bill (if LOG is used)

👉 Keep an eye on your insurer’s claim portal for updates.

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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Submitting incomplete documents

• Claiming non-covered treatments or elective surgery

• Missing your policy’s submission deadline (typically within 30–90 days)

• Not getting a referral (for specialist care claims)

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🙋 Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Can I claim both from MediShield Life and private insurance?

Yes, if you have an Integrated Shield Plan (IP). MediShield pays first, followed by your private insurer.

Q: How do I check my hospitalisation coverage?

You can log into CPF’s Insurance Dashboard or visit your insurer’s online portal.

Q: What happens if my claim is rejected?

Check the rejection reason and file an appeal or seek advice from your financial advisor or MAS-approved complaint channels.

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🧠 Final Thoughts

Knowing how to file a hospitalisation or medical claim in Singapore can save you time, money, and stress. Whether you’re covered under MediShield Life, an Integrated Shield Plan, or private insurance, following the correct process ensures faster approvals and reimbursements.

Confused about what you really need in your current insurance portfolio? Let’s walk you through it—no cost, no pressure. Leave your contact details via the form below or Whatsapp us today!