When companies in Singapore search for Group Hospitalisation & Surgical (GHS) insurance, they often compare a few trusted names:
Income, QBE, Tokio Marine, AIA, Prudential, Great Eastern, and Singlife.
But what makes HR managers choose one over another?
We break down the common questions employees and employers search about GHS plans — and reveal why Income and QBE are top of mind when HR has to make a choice that balances coverage, budget, and ease of claims.
🔍 Commonly Searched Questions About GHS Insurance in Singapore
- Does GHS cover pre-existing conditions?
- Is outpatient treatment included or optional?
- Can GHS be portable if an employee resigns?
- How fast are GHS claims processed?
- What’s the typical inpatient annual limit?
- Which insurers have the best panel hospitals?
- How do co-payment and pro-ration apply in private hospitals?
- Which insurer offers the most flexible add-on options?
- Can GHS be combined with Integrated Shield Plans (IPs)?
- Which insurer allows same-day digital claims processing?
🧾 Comparing Popular GHS Providers in Singapore
| Insurer | Strengths | Limitations |
|---|---|---|
| Income | Large panel, good digital claims, strong public hospital alignment | Slightly conservative underwriting |
| QBE | Very HR-friendly, competitive pricing, great for work permit/S pass holders | Less known for high-end private hospital coverage |
| Tokio Marine | Broad customisation, flexible underwriting | Claims processing not as fast as digital-first players |
| AIA | Strong brand trust, easy bundling with wellness programmes | Premiums are often higher |
| Prudential | Attractive top-up features, long history in Singapore | Complexity in claim escalation |
| Great Eastern | Good for large headcounts, strong legacy product lines | Can be rigid in customising benefits for SMEs |
| Singlife | Fast digital onboarding, flexible modular add-ons | Newer brand image, smaller panel network |
✅ Why HR Managers Prefer Income and QBE: The Hidden Truth
🟧 Why HRs Like Income:
- Trusted by Stat Boards & SMEs: Income has become the default for government-linked agencies and smaller businesses alike.
- Smooth Claims Reimbursement: Especially at restructured hospitals like SGH, TTSH, and KKH. The process feels integrated.
- Predictable Premium Increases: HR doesn’t like surprises. Income’s renewals are conservative and seldom sudden.
- Easier Buy-in from Employees: Being a local co-op brand, employees tend to trust Income without needing long HR explanations.
🟦 Why HRs Like QBE (And It’s Not Just Price):
- They Know the Work Pass Crowd: Many companies with Malaysian, Bangladeshi, or Indian staff go to QBE for Foreign Worker Medical Insurance + GHS bundles.
- Practical Cover, No Gimmicks: HR appreciates when an insurer doesn’t overpromise. QBE spells out what’s covered with less fine print.
- One HR Point of Contact: QBE often assigns a single point of contact, saving HR time during onboarding, claim disputes, and renewals.
- Appealing to Finance Teams Too: CFOs appreciate QBE’s clarity on pro-ration, claims ratios, and how they affect renewal pricing.
Customised Plans
Looking for a GHS plan that keeps both HR and Finance happy?
👉 Let’s customise a quote that fits your team
Disclaimer:
This article is based on general market observations, public product summaries, and common HR feedback in Singapore. The views expressed do not represent the official stance of any insurance provider mentioned nor the article writer. Readers are encouraged to conduct their own due diligence before purchase.