Income Insurance has introduced a groundbreaking mental wellness insurance plan in Singapore called the “SNACK Self Care Pack.” This monthly subscription plan, available through the SNACK by Income mobile app, marks a milestone in the Singapore insurance industry.
The plan offers comprehensive coverage for mental wellness without restrictions, such as inpatient hospitalization or post-hospitalization conditions. Additionally, it provides subscribers with enhanced access to psychiatric consultations and psychotherapy sessions. Here’s an in-depth look at this innovative insurance offering.
Addressing the Rising Mental Health Concerns
Income Insurance’s decision to launch the SNACK Self Care Pack comes in response to the growing concern over mental health issues in Singapore. According to data from the National Population Health Survey by the Ministry of Health (MOH), the prevalence of poor mental health has risen from 13.4% in 2020 to 17.0% in 2022. This alarming increase highlights the urgent need for accessible mental health support.
Accessible Mental Health Support
The SNACK Self Care Pack is designed to be an “active recovery and preventive” solution to promote mental well-being and early treatment. Subscribers to this plan can enjoy coverage of up to SG$200 a month for psychiatric consultations and up to SG$500 a month for psychotherapy sessions. This expanded access to mental health services is a significant step towards reducing barriers to care.
Reimbursement Requirements
Subscribers seeking reimbursement for psychotherapy sessions will need a recommendation from a psychiatrist. It’s worth noting that individuals with existing mental conditions currently under psychiatric care are ineligible for a claim within 12 months unless the coverage pertains to a different diagnosis.
Reducing Stigma and Barriers
Income Insurance acknowledges that despite increased awareness and conversations about mental health, stigma, misconceptions, and financial barriers can deter individuals from seeking timely and appropriate help.
A study conducted by Income Insurance found that the top two reasons respondents cited for being reluctant to seek professional help were the cost of treatment and uncertainty about the seriousness of their condition. This underlines the importance of addressing these barriers to ensure individuals receive the support they need.
Prioritizing Mental Health
Income Insurance’s launch of the SNACK Self Care Pack is part of a broader effort to prioritize mental health and well-being. This innovative insurance offering aligns with the evolving landscape of mental health care in Singapore and aims to make services more accessible to those who need them.
Star Secure Pro and Mental Health Coverage
It’s worth mentioning that Income Insurance recently launched Star Secure Pro, another plan aimed at providing additional protection for specific mental health conditions. This plan covers major depressive disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder, and Tourette’s syndrome, emphasizing the company’s commitment to mental health support.
Recognition and Regulatory Oversight
Income Insurance’s dedication to addressing mental health concerns has not gone unnoticed. The company was named one of Singapore’s “systemically important” insurers by the Monetary Authority of Singapore (MAS). This recognition subjects Income Insurance to additional supervisory measures aimed at enhancing the sector’s resilience and support in Singapore.
Conclusion
Income Insurance’s introduction of the SNACK Self Care Pack represents a significant step forward in providing accessible mental health support through innovative insurance solutions. As mental health issues continue to affect a growing number of individuals, initiatives like this are crucial in reducing stigma, addressing financial barriers, and ensuring that individuals receive the necessary care and support for their mental well-being. Income Insurance’s commitment to mental health underscores the importance of this issue in today’s society.
