HSC1009 Health Systems – Singapore’s Perspective Assessment Brief 2026, Singapore

HSC1009 Assessment Brief

Task 1: Discussion Board Post (35%)

Individual posts can be made from Week 1; due by Week 5

Students will demonstrate competence in academic writing through a two-paragraph post, which is a critical discussion on a health system issue, supported with maximum of three academic references.

Due date: 3 Oct 2026, Saturday before 11:59 PM

Objectives

1. Develop critical thinking, reflection and academic writing skills through individual discussion board post.

2. Engage in academic writing to present both argument and counter-argument on a health system issue, supported by evidence, i.e. relevant academic references.

Instructions

1. Consider the topic from the discussion board provided from Week 1 onwards.

2. Ensure your post is related to the topic and course material and promotes thoughtful discussion.

3. Write a post of about 500 (+/- 10%, i.e. 450-550) words, consisting of 2-3 paragraphs.

4. Include a clear main argument in your post but also critically discuss a counter- argument.

5. Support your arguments with evidence from peer-reviewed journal articles or textbooks. Use 2-3 references.

6. Use proper citations in your post according to the American Psychological  Association (APA) style edition (https://libguides.singa poretech.edu.sg/citation).

7. Respond to at least one post made by peers, consisting of 1-2 paragraphs and 150-200 words. Your responses should be constructive, respectful, and add value to the discussion (e.g., by asking questions, providing additional insights, or offering alternative perspectives).

8. Proofread your writing to ensure there are no grammatical, typographical or spelling errors.

You must start a thread before you can view or reply to other threads.

Late submissions will not be marked.

Plagiarism will result in a zero grade and will lead to further disciplinary action.

Topic : Expanding the Use of MediSave in Outpatient Treatment

In the March Committee of Supply debate, Minister Ong Ye Kung announced that the withdrawal limits for MediSave to be used for outpatient treatment would be raised. From

January 1 , 2027, the withdrawal limits under the MediSave 500/700 scheme will be raised. Singaporeans with chronic conditions can cu rrentlywithdraw up to $500 a year from their MediSave account for outpatient treatment; those with complex chronic conditions requiring more intensive treatment can withdraw up to $700 a year. From 2027, they will be able to withdraw up to $700 and $1 ,OOO respectively.

Consider this health policy change and discuss the pros and cons of raising withdrawal limits for MediSave to use for outpatient treatment.

Announcements on MediSave, preventive care at Budget debate re-examine assumptions: Ong Ye Kung I The Straits Times