LAST year, less than 1 per cent of MediShield policies lapsed, because policyholders did not have enough savings to pay the premiums for the national medical insurance plan.

Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan said yesterday: "Singaporeans should stay within MediShield and must not allow their coverage to lapse, or they will regret it in future."

They have a grace period of two months to top up their Medisave accounts, from which premiums can be deducted.

Mr Khaw urged those who had exhausted their Medisave to seek help from working family members.

Those whose policies have lapsed can apply to be covered again, as long as their health status remains the same and they contribute regularly to Medisave, he said.

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