Medical Negligence
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?
If a healthcare provider fails to provide a reasonable standard of care and you suffer harm as a result, you may have a claim for medical negligence:
- Elements: You must prove (1) the doctor owed you a duty of care, (2) the doctor breached that duty (fell below the standard of a competent practitioner), (3) the breach caused your injury, and (4) you suffered recoverable damage.
- Standard of care: Judged against the Bolam-Bolitho test — what a responsible body of medical practitioners would consider acceptable, subject to logical analysis by the court.
- SMC complaints: You can also file a complaint with the Singapore Medical Council, which can investigate and discipline the doctor (including suspension or striking off the register).
- Time limit: You must file a civil claim within 3 years of the date you knew or ought to have known about the negligence (Limitation Act, s24A).
When does it apply?
- You believe a doctor, nurse, or other healthcare provider made a mistake that caused you harm.
- This applies to all healthcare settings — hospitals, clinics, dental practices, and specialist centres.
What should you do?
- Obtain your medical records — you have the right to access your records (see Data Protection section).
- Seek a second medical opinion to understand what went wrong and the impact on your health.
- Consider filing a complaint with the SMC — this is separate from a civil lawsuit and does not require a lawyer.
- Engage a medical negligence lawyer for a civil claim — many offer an initial free consultation.
What should you NOT do?
- Don't delay — the 3-year limitation period can expire before you realise it.
- Don't confuse a bad outcome with negligence — medicine involves inherent risks. Negligence requires a breach of the standard of care.
- Don't destroy medical documents or correspondence — keep everything as evidence.
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