By Salma Khalik HEALTH CORRESPONDENT

SIX days since the start of means testing for hospital patients seeking subsidised treatment, more than 90 per cent of those opting for B2- and C-class wards are getting the maximum subsidy.

The 8 per cent who are getting less than this comprise patients with no income but who live in expensive homes, and workers who earn more than the $3,200-a-month cut-off for full subsidy.

The Health Ministry implemented means testing to ensure that the bulk of funds meant for subsidies - $1.5 billion in 2007 - goes to patients who need it most.

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