When the Covid-19 outbreak happened in Singapore, all hands have to be on deck at Singapore’s various medical institutions.
And when you couple that with some people who decide to leave their jobs because they can’t take the risk, what happens?
Medical workers who have already made plans to travel overseas have to cancel their plans.
Travel arrangements which they might’ve already paid for.
Well, if you, or your friends, are in the healthcare industry and has your previously approved leave cancelled, I’ve got some great news for you.
“Medical Workers Who Cancel Holiday Plans Will Have Help Getting Refund Or Have Costs Fully Reimbursed”
That’s right, you don’t have to bear the brunt of cancelling your travel plans.
On 13 Feb 2020, it was announced that public healthcare institutions will help employees get refunds for travel and holiday arrangements.
They’ll provide them with a letter of proof, stating that their employers have cancelled their leave.
This letter should, hopefully, be enough for them to get refunds or make claims from their insurance companies.
If, however, you are unable to obtain refunds even with the letter, don’t worry.
The public institutions will reimburse you with the money you’ve spent.
Case-By-Case Basis For Other Family Members
However, do note that this privilege is only for employees themselves.
As for your family members who are supposed to be travelling together with you, it’ll be assessed on a case-by-case basis.
This, they said, is to make sure that all other avenues and means are attempted with travel agents.
The Healthcare Services Employees’ Union (HSEU) open up their doors, asking healthcare workers who are facing difficulties with their refunds to go straight to them for assistance.
Meanwhile, they also urge all organisations, including travel agencies and insurance companies, to show more consideration for healthcare workers.
Couldn’t Have Happened To A Better Group Of People
Our medical workers are risking their lives, and their families, by staying in their jobs to fight against the Covid-19 virus outbreak.
While plenty of Singaporeans appreciate their efforts, there are cases of these unsung heroes getting discriminated against by the general public.
Do remember that while they spend their time in close proximity with patients who’ve contracted Covid-19, the hospitals do take every precaution to safeguard their own employees.
The Covid-19 virus is believed to be transmitted via respiratory droplets, so unless they sneeze or cough on you, you won’t contract the virus.
Just be careful of where you touch and wash your hands frequently with soap and you’ll be fine.
For people who are fighting to keep Singapore and our families, don’t they even deserve at least a smile and a nod?
Meanwhile, do bookmark MOH’s website for the latest update.