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MOH TO FORM WORKGROUP TO REVIEW THE TAKING OF INFORMED CONSENT AND SMC DISCIPLINARY PROCESS

2 March 2019

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          The Ministry of Health will form a Workgroup to undertake a comprehensive review and to make the appropriate recommendations on: (1) the taking of informed consent by doctors, and (2) the Singapore Medical Council’s (SMC) disciplinary process. This was announced by Senior Minister of State, Ministry of Health and Ministry of Law, Mr Edwin Tong, at the SMC’s Physician’s Pledge Affirmation Ceremony today.

Informed Consent

2.          MOH is concerned that a lack of clarity on appropriate informed consent leads to the practice of defensive medicine.This will give rise to increased healthcare costs and also adversely affect patient safety and welfare.This is in neither the patient’s nor the doctor’s interests.The Workgroup will therefore undertake a comprehensive review on the taking of informed consent – including a review of the legal position as well as the practical aspects of taking informed consent, with a view to providing guidance to doctors.

SMC Disciplinary Process

3.        The Workgroup will also carry out a review of the SMC’s regulatory processes and systems, with a view to enhance and improve upon the regulatory regime for medical practitioners.The SMC and its processes must continue to have the full confidence and trust of the medical profession, patients and the general public.

4.        MOH has sought the support of the Singapore Medical Association, Academy of Medicine, Singapore, and College of Family Physicians Singapore to form a Workgroup to undertake the above review. The Workgroup will also comprise other medical and legal professionals and laypersons. It will consult widely by engaging medical professionals, legal professionals and members of the public in evaluating the issues raised and making the appropriate recommendations to MOH.

5.        MOH will continue to engage with healthcare professionals to have greater clarity and balance in the practice and processes in the medical community, so as to enhance patient safety and keep overall healthcare costs affordable.

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