The Ministry of Health (MOH) has initiated proceedings to revoke the licence of MaNaDr Clinic, located on Beach Road, following an investigation into its controversial telemedicine practices. As revealed on 24 October 2024, the clinic is accused of providing outpatient medical services in a manner deemed neither clinically nor ethically appropriate.
Investigative findings pointed to a troubling trend wherein a significant number of teleconsultations lasted only a minute or less, often concluding with prescriptions of medications and the issuance of medical certificates (MCs). Such fleeting consultations raise serious concerns about the safety and quality of care being provided to patients.
Multiple MCs and Documentation Issues
In addition to the brevity of consultations, the clinic allegedly issued a number of MCs to the same patients over short time frames. MOH observed that some case notes contained overly detailed information that did not match the quick consultations, while other records were notably sparse—a situation that raises questions about patient care continuity.
Action Against Medical Staff
As part of the ongoing investigation, MOH will refer 41 doctors to the Singapore Medical Council (SMC) for suspected professional misconduct linked to these telemedicinal practices. Among the physicians, thirteen served as locum practitioners while concurrently employed by public healthcare institutions, breaching their employment terms.
- Five doctors have already exited the public healthcare sector.
- Seven of the remaining physicians faced dismissal, while one was subjected to disciplinary measures based on the severity of their actions.
Regulatory Scrutiny and Future Oversight
MOH plans to scrutinise other licensed telemedicine providers to ensure compliance with regulatory standards, stressing the importance of maintaining high ethical standards. Doctors practicing telemedicine are reminded to adhere strictly to SMC’s Ethical Code, with the ministry prepared to escalate action, including referrals for any cases of professional misconduct.
MaNaDr Clinic has a fourteen-day period to respond to the licence revocation notice, with their operational capabilities under significant threat if the revocation proceeds.