Medical certificates (MCs) are part and parcel of life in Singapore. Whether you’re a student, employee, or caregiver, you will eventually need one to justify time away from school or work. This guide answers the questions we hear most often so you can focus on getting well—without worrying about paperwork.
MCs are for patients who are genuinely unwell
Doctors issue MCs only after deciding that you’re medically unfit for duty. For mild illnesses—coughs, gastroenteritis, migraine flare-ups—teleconsults are a convenient option: you speak with an SMC-registered doctor via secure video and receive the MC digitally.
It’s illegal to request an MC when you are well. Doctors rely heavily on your history and self-reported symptoms, especially for issues where no scan is needed (headaches, insomnia, cramps). Exaggerating symptoms can erode trust and may trigger regulatory reviews.
Why faking symptoms backfires
- Clinicians are trained to spot inconsistent stories or exam findings.
- Repeated requests for unnecessary documentation raise red flags.
- Doctors may refuse the MC or grant a shorter duration while recommending an in-person review.
How many days can you get via teleconsult?
MC duration depends on your illness, type of work, and risk of infecting others. Most mild teleconsult cases receive one to three days of rest with a follow-up if symptoms persist. Infectious illnesses (COVID-19, HFMD, chickenpox) may require longer cover based on public health guidelines.
| Condition | Typical teleconsult MC duration* |
|---|---|
| Diarrhoea & vomiting | 1–2 days. See a clinic if symptoms last >3 days or blood appears. |
| Headache or migraine | 1 day. Return if pain escalates suddenly or neurological changes develop. |
| Respiratory infections (cough, cold, fever) | 1–3 days. Seek review if fever persists >3–4 days or breathing worsens. |
| Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease | 7–10 days—remain home while blisters are fluid-filled. |
| Chickenpox | About 7 days, until lesions crust over. |
| Insomnia / poor sleep | 1 day, plus sleep hygiene strategies. |
| Acute low back pain | 1–2 days with mobility advice. Attend A&E if numbness or bladder issues appear. |
| Gout flare | 1–2 days. Discuss long-term uric acid control after recurrent attacks. |
| Menstrual cramps | 1 day at the start of menstruation. See a GP for severe or persistent symptoms. |
*Always subject to the doctor’s clinical assessment.
Are digital MCs valid?
Yes. DigiMCs carry the same legal weight as paper certificates provided they are issued by SMC-registered doctors. Each certificate contains:
- Your name and identification number.
- Doctor’s name, signature, and MCR number.
- Serial number with QR code or verification link.
- Date of issue and duration granted.
Employers unfamiliar with DigiMCs can cross-check the document through the official mc.gov.sg portal.
Why workplaces and schools care about MCs
- MCs reduce the spread of contagious illnesses across teams and classrooms.
- The Employment Act guarantees paid sick leave for eligible staff.
- Accurate documentation keeps attendance records transparent and protects you against disputes.
Teleconsulting from Malaysia or overseas
Living across the border? You can still teleconsult from Johor Bahru or elsewhere, but note:
- Singapore-issued MCs remain valid only locally.
- Medication deliveries can only be sent to Singapore addresses.
- Doctors may issue a fresh MC after video assessment even if you have a Malaysia-issued certificate—but they cannot backdate it.
Common questions our doctors receive
“Can I get an MC if I feel fine?”
No. Doctors must determine that you’re unfit for duty before issuing an MC.
“Can I extend my MC if I’m still unwell?”
Possibly. Expect a follow-up assessment. Some providers charge an admin fee if the extension doesn’t require a full consult.
“Can I buy a medical certificate?”
Buying or selling MCs is illegal. Always see a licensed doctor.
“Do I need medication with my MC?”
Not always. Many conditions resolve with rest and simple self-care. Your doctor will decide if medication is required.
Quick FAQ
Staying home when you’re unwell protects colleagues, classmates, and yourself. With telemedicine, you can receive proper documentation in minutes—while resting exactly where you should be.
