Feeling unwell but unsure whether you need to leave home for a clinic visit? Telemedicine makes it possible to speak with a Singapore-registered doctor, get medical advice, and receive a legitimate medical certificate (MC) without sitting in a waiting room. This guide explains when an MC can be issued, what doctors look for, and how cross-border patients can access care.
Seeing online doctors in Singapore
If you are genuinely unwell—even with mild symptoms—teleconsults are a fast way to get professional support. Most patients connect with a doctor within five to ten minutes, receive rest recommendations, and collect medication when needed. For the vast majority of minor illnesses, rest and symptomatic relief are more important than extensive investigations.
However, obtaining an MC when you are perfectly healthy is illegal. Doctors rely heavily on your medical history and self-reported symptoms; imaging or lab tests are not always definitive, especially for headaches or insomnia. Misleading your doctor undermines clinical trust and can lead to tighter regulations for everyone.
Why faking symptoms is never worth it
Some people are tempted to exaggerate symptoms for time off, prescriptions, or to avoid obligations. Doctors are trained to look for signs of malingering, including:
- Symptoms that would provide a personal benefit if confirmed (for example, avoiding legal action or securing avoidance from National Service).
- Complaints that do not align with observed signs or the expected course of an illness.
- Poor adherence to treatment plans or repeated requests for documentation without clinical justification.
- A background of behaviour disorders that raises concerns about intent.
If a doctor suspects malingering, they may issue a shorter MC, recommend an in-person follow-up, or deny the request entirely.
How many days of MC can you get?
MCs issued through teleconsults typically cover one to three days. The exact duration depends on your diagnosis, how severe the symptoms are, and whether infectious precautions are required. Certain viral illnesses—such as HFMD or chickenpox—can justify longer MCs to protect classmates or colleagues.
| Illness | Estimated recovery window* | When to escalate care |
|---|---|---|
| Diarrhoea & vomiting | 1–2 days | Seek a clinic review if symptoms persist >3 days, blood appears in stools, or severe abdominal pain develops. |
| Headaches or migraines | Usually within a day | Go to a doctor immediately if the pain strikes suddenly (thunderclap), follows exertion, or causes neurological deficits. |
| Cough, cold, fever | 1–3 days | Arrange a physical consult if fever persists >3–4 days, chest pain occurs, or breathing worsens. |
| Hand, Foot & Mouth Disease | 7–10 days | Visit the emergency department for persistent high fever, neurological symptoms, or inability to stay hydrated. |
| Chickenpox | About 7 days | Seek urgent care for high fever, neurological changes, or difficulty swallowing fluids. |
| Insomnia / poor sleep | 1 day | Implement sleep hygiene; follow up if symptoms persist and affect daily function. |
| Acute low back pain | 1–2 days | Head to A&E if weakness, numbness, bladder or bowel issues develop. |
| Gout flare | 1–2 days | Discuss long-term uric acid control after recurrent attacks. |
| Menstrual cramps | Typically day 1–2 | Consult a GP if the flow becomes unusually heavy, fever appears, or pain is atypical. |
*Always based on a doctor’s professional assessment.
Are digital MCs valid in Singapore?
Absolutely. Electronic MCs (DigiMCs) are official documents issued through mc.gov.sg by Singapore Medical Council-registered doctors. They contain a serial number, the type and duration of leave, the doctor’s name and MCR number, your identification details, and a QR code for verification. Employers who have questions can refer to GovTech’s resources to confirm authenticity.
DigitalHealth.sg doctors comply with the SMC Ethical Code and Guidelines when issuing MCs, ensuring each certificate is medically justified.
Why workplaces expect MCs
MCs protect classmates and colleagues by keeping contagious individuals at home and allow organisations to plan ahead. The Employment Act grants eligible employees paid sick leave, so using MCs correctly supports both health and productivity. Attending school or work while sick risks triggering outbreaks and delays your own recovery.
Consulting from Malaysia (or overseas)
Plenty of commuters live in Johor Bahru but work in Singapore. You can book a teleconsult from across the border; any MC issued remains valid in Singapore, and medication delivery is limited to local addresses. If you already have a Malaysia-issued MC, our doctors may issue a new Singapore MC after confirming the diagnosis via video. Note: MCs cannot be backdated.
Frequently asked questions
Are your medical certificates valid?
Yes. Our e-MCs are issued through mc.gov.sg and include verification details such as a serial number, doctor’s MCR number, and QR code.
Can I get an MC if I am well?
No. MCs are only issued when a doctor assesses you as unfit for duty.
How many days of MC can I get via teleconsult?
Generally 1–3 days depending on symptom severity. Longer durations are provided when public health guidelines require it.
Can my MC be extended?
Your doctor will reassess your condition. Follow-up consults or admin fees may apply if the extension is granted without a full video visit.
Do I need medication with an MC?
Not always. Many patients recover with rest; your doctor will recommend medication only when it adds value.
