Prudence Family Clinic’s Licence Revoked by MOH
In a shocking turn of events, the Ministry of Health (MOH) has taken decisive action against Prudence Family Clinic located at 512 Bishan Street 13. The clinic’s licence has been revoked due to improper prescription practices, raising concerns about patient safety and ethical standards in medical care. The MOH issued a notice to the clinic on Dec 20, 2024, informing them of the intent to revoke their licence, which was met with no response from Prudence Family Clinic.
Improper Prescription Practices Uncovered
The investigation by MOH revealed that Prudence Family Clinic had been violating the conditions of its licence by improperly prescribing medications such as codeine cough syrups, benzodiazepines, and other hypnotics. These medications are commonly used to manage various health conditions, including cough, anxiety, and sleep disorders. However, the clinic failed to document and maintain proper health records for patients prescribed with these medications. Moreover, doctors at the clinic did not adhere to prescribed limits for cough syrups, and in some cases, concurrently prescribed multiple benzodiazepines or hypnotics to patients.
Consequences of Licence Revocation
As a result of these serious breaches, MOH has concluded that Prudence Family Clinic is no longer capable of providing outpatient medical services in a safe and ethical manner. The clinic’s accreditation and participation in various health schemes, including Community Health Assist Scheme and MediSave, will cease immediately. This decision underscores the importance of upholding high standards of patient care and regulatory compliance in the healthcare industry.
Doctors Under Investigation
In addition to the licence revocation, two doctors from Prudence Family Clinic are now under investigation by the Health Sciences Authority for their involvement in the improper prescribing practices. These doctors will also face inquiries by the Singapore Medical Council regarding potential breaches of ethical codes and guidelines. The implications of their actions extend beyond the clinic’s closure, highlighting the need for accountability and oversight in medical practice.
Ensuring Continuity of Care
MOH has instructed Prudence Family Clinic to notify all affected patients about the licence revocation to ensure continuity of care. Patients are encouraged to seek medical attention from other nearby CHAS-accredited, MediSave-accredited, or Healthier SG clinics. MOH remains committed to monitoring licensed providers to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements when prescribing medications. The repercussions of this incident serve as a wake-up call for the healthcare industry to prioritize patient safety and ethical practices above all else.
