SAFMC and Medical in Confidence

Tomneedhelp SG

Hi Guys,

I was wondering how well is the SAF in keeping the secrets of patients' medical history, especially for P cases. Will they give out medical reports upon private/ public firms request? Will it have an impact on your future career prospects like difficulties in finding jobs?

Do cases like sleep-walking and uncommon phobias found out during NSF reduce your chances of getting a job after ORD?

Does a visit to the medical centre complaining to the MO about the difficulties and stress you encountered in a new environment counts as an mental disorder, e.g. adjustment disorder? (there are no follow ups). The MO wrote something into the EMR stating whatever you told him. Will it have any potential consequences like those stated above (jobs???)?

weasel1962 SG

OSA or Official Secrets Act (Chap 213) prevents unauthorised release of info. However, nothing in the OSA or SAF act prevents SAF from authorising release of medical records. Singapore got no privacy law.

I have no experience of anyone actually requesting for such data though so no idea whether in practice it really happen.

Somnambulism or sleepwalking shouldn't affect day jobs unless you day sleep but if you try for night watchman or night security guard, that may be a plus!. Seriously, when applying for jobs, normally need to go for check up. Most will require declaration. It is better to check with doctor whether this will affect the job.

I have relatives who failed medical exam but still got job. Just have to declare and get exemption. Except for serious cases eg cancer, HIV, etc, most cases should be no problem but if dun want to hire, its normally for your and your colleague's safety reason.

Shotgun SG

Medical data is supposed to be held confidential. That is applicable to SAF or private sector.

If they don't, its your right to sue.