Telemedicine doctors in Singapore are speaking out about the difficulties they face on the job, particularly when dealing with patients who fake illnesses to obtain medical certificates (MCs) and those who become upset when denied an MC.
Challenges with Malingering Patients:
10-15% of patients are estimated to be malingerers, pretending to be ill to escape work or duty
Patients may become aggressive or complaint-prone if denied an MC
Doctors may face punishment, including low ratings and loss of pay, for not issuing MCs
Specifically, 41 doctors from MaNaDr Clinic have been referred to the Singapore Medical Council for alleged wrongdoing. The allegations include excessively short teleconsultations, repeated issuance of medical certificates (MCs) to the same patient over a short period, and questionable documentation. These practices raise concerns about the clinic's adherence to medical standards and its prioritization of patient care.
High Caseloads and Administrative Pressure:
Teleconsultation caseloads being extremely high, with nonstop calls for hours
Doctors facing criticism from administrative teams for missed calls or wait times
Pressure to maintain high ratings and avoid complaints can impact doctor-patient relationships
The health ministry has announced its intention to revoke MaNaDr Clinic's license due to allegations of professional misconduct. This decision comes after an investigation revealed potential breaches in the clinic's practices.
Ensuring that telemedicine clinics operate with integrity and prioritize patient well-being is crucial for maintaining public trust in the healthcare system. Doctors working in telemedicine have expressed concerns and frustrations regarding their experiences with difficult patients. One of the primary issues they face is the challenge of verifying patient medical history and authenticity. Some patients may provide false information or withhold crucial details, making it difficult for doctors to provide accurate diagnoses and treatment.
Furthermore, telemedicine doctors often handle high caseloads, with nonstop calls for hours. This demanding schedule can lead to burnout and decreased job satisfaction. The lack of breaks and intense workload can also impact doctors' ability to provide quality care. If a patient disputes a diagnosis or feels unfairly treated, they can file a complaint, potentially affecting the doctor's reputation and livelihood. This fear can lead doctors to question their decisions and second-guess themselves, eroding their confidence and judgment.
Reference:
1. Channel News Asia. "Doctors Speak Out About Telemedicine Abuse by Patients Seeking MCs." Channel News Asia. Accessed November 08, 2024. https://www.channelnewsasia.com/singapore/doctors-telemedicine-mc-patients-aggressive-calls-4707201.
(Input From Various Sources)
(Rehash/Neha Kamble/MSM)