Informed Consent
Written in plain language for general understanding. This is educational content, not legal advice. Based on Singapore Acts of Parliament, subsidiary legislation, and official government guidance.
Singapore National Law
What is this right?
Every patient in Singapore has the right to informed consent before any medical procedure or treatment:
- Montgomery standard: Following the landmark Hii Chii Kok decision, Singapore law requires doctors to disclose information that a reasonable patient would consider significant when deciding whether to undergo treatment.
- What must be disclosed: The nature of the procedure, material risks, alternatives, and the consequences of not proceeding.
- Voluntariness: Consent must be given freely — without coercion, undue influence, or deception.
- Capacity: The patient must have the mental capacity to understand the information and make a decision.
- Documentation: Consent is typically documented with a signed consent form, but verbal consent is also valid.
When does it apply?
- You are about to undergo any medical procedure, surgery, or treatment — from a routine blood test to major surgery.
- This right applies in all healthcare settings — public hospitals, private clinics, dental offices, and specialist centres.
What should you do?
- Ask questions — if you don't understand something, ask your doctor to explain in simpler terms.
- Ask about risks, alternatives, and what happens if you decline.
- Take time to decide — you are not obliged to consent immediately (except in emergencies).
- If you feel pressured into a procedure, say "I need more time to think" and seek a second opinion.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't sign a consent form you haven't read — ask for clarification on any terms you don't understand.
- Don't assume the doctor knows best without discussion — you have the right to participate in decisions about your own healthcare.
- Don't ignore your right to refuse — competent adults can refuse treatment, even if the doctor considers it necessary.
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