Feeling dreadful but dreading the queue at your neighbourhood clinic? Telemedicine lets you speak to a Singapore-registered doctor within minutes, receive medical advice, and get a legitimate medical certificate (MC) when it’s clinically warranted. Here’s how to make the most of a video consult—without running afoul of the rules.
Why telemedicine works for mild illness
- Most patients connect to a doctor within 5–10 minutes of joining the queue.
- You receive rest recommendations and medication delivery without leaving home.
- Minor ailments (cough, stomach bugs, cramps) often need rest and symptomatic relief more than scans or blood tests.
Just remember: obtaining an MC when you’re well is illegal. Doctors rely on honest history and on-screen findings; misleading them jeopardises trust and can trigger regulatory scrutiny for everyone.
Why faking symptoms never pays off
Doctors are trained to spot malingering. They look for:
- Complaints that offer personal gain if “confirmed” (e.g., avoiding obligations).
- Symptoms that don’t match observed signs or the natural history of the illness.
- Repeated requests for MCs without clinical justification.
- Non-adherence to previous treatment plans.
If something doesn’t add up, a doctor may issue a shorter MC, insist on an in-person review, or decline the request.
How many days of MC will I get?
Teleconsult MCs generally cover one to three days. Duration depends on your diagnosis, symptom severity, and whether infection control measures are needed. Some viral illnesses (HFMD, chickenpox) warrant longer leave to protect classmates and colleagues.
| Illness | Estimated recovery window* | When to escalate care |
|---|---|---|
| Diarrhoea & vomiting | 1–2 days | See a doctor if symptoms last >3 days, blood appears, or severe abdominal pain develops. |
| Headache / migraine | Usually 1 day | Seek immediate care if pain is sudden (“thunderclap”), follows exertion, or triggers neurological changes. |
| Cough, cold, fever | 1–3 days | Arrange a clinic visit if fever persists >3–4 days, chest pain develops, or breathing worsens. |
| Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease | 7–10 days | Go to A&E for persistent high fever, neurological symptoms, or inability to hydrate. |
| Chickenpox | About 7 days | Seek urgent care for high fever, confusion, or difficulty swallowing fluids. |
| Insomnia / poor sleep | 1 day | Practise sleep hygiene; consult a GP if the issue recurs frequently. |
| Acute low back pain | 1–2 days | Attend A&E if weakness, numbness, or bladder/bowel issues appear. |
| Gout flare | 1–2 days | Discuss long-term uric acid management after repeat attacks. |
| Menstrual cramps | Day 1–2 | See a doctor if flow becomes unusually heavy or pain is atypical. |
*Always at the doctor’s discretion.
Are digital MCs valid?
Yes. DigiMCs issued through mc.gov.sg are official documents. Each one includes:
- A serial number and QR code so employers can verify authenticity.
- Your name and identification number.
- The doctor’s name, signature, and MCR number.
- Date of issue, type of leave, and duration granted.
DigitalHealth.sg clinicians follow the SMC Ethical Code and Guidelines whenever they issue MCs.
Why workplaces still expect MCs
- MCs keep contagious teammates at home, protecting everyone else.
- The Employment Act entitles eligible staff to paid sick leave.
- Accurate documentation keeps attendance records transparent and avoids disputes.
Teleconsulting from Malaysia or overseas
Many commuters live in Johor Bahru but work in Singapore. You can teleconsult from abroad; just note:
- Singapore MCs remain valid only in Singapore.
- Medication delivery is available only to local addresses.
- If you already have a Malaysia-issued MC, our doctors may issue a fresh Singapore certificate after verifying your condition on video. MCs cannot be backdated.
Frequently asked questions
Telemedicine keeps you comfortable at home while ensuring your documentation stays compliant. When symptoms strike, hop on a video consult early, be honest about how you feel, and follow the recovery plan recommended by your doctor.
