Government's Policy Stance on Telemedicine and Teleconsultation

Mr Teo Ser Luck asked the Minister for Health in view of recent developments in technology application in the healthcare sector, what is the Ministry's policy and regulation with regard to (i) tele-consultation between doctors and patients and (ii) telemedicine in areas of prescription, treatment and diagnosis.

Telehealth platforms enable patients to receive care in convenient locations of their choice. Patients can receive more timely advice and intervention to manage their conditions without having to schedule an appointment to visit a healthcare institution. This reduces the caregiver burden and empowers individuals to take an active role in their health.

In 2015, the Ministry of Health (MOH) issued a set of National Telemedicine Guidelines to guide healthcare providers in the safe and appropriate delivery of healthcare services through telemedicine. This is complemented by the Singapore Medical Council's Ethical Code and Ethical Guidelines and accompanying Handbook on Medical Ethics issued in 2016 that set out the standards of care required of doctors practising telemedicine.

Based on the guidelines, the standard of care expected of doctors providing telemedicine should be comparable to what patients would receive in a face-to-face consultation. Doctors providing care via virtual platforms have a responsibility to ensure that the remote diagnosis made is accurate and that patients receive appropriate medical advice and management for their conditions. If in doubt, doctors should offer to see the patients face-to-face to conduct a physical assessment or refer the patient to the nearest clinic or healthcare institution.

Today, telemedicine is typically offered as an extension of care for stable patients, taking place after a doctor has had an initial face-to-face consultation with the patient and is satisfied that the patient is suitable to be followed up via telemedicine. As telemedicine services continue to evolve, MOH will monitor the developments and review our policies and regulations so as to enable new care models that are beneficial for patients, while ensuring their safety and welfare at all times.