Continuity matters in long-term care. A clinician who knows your history can compare symptoms, readings, medicines and previous plans, but not every follow-up is suitable for video.
Do not use an acute online queue only to obtain a refill without assessment. Bring enough information for the doctor to review whether the medicine and care plan remain appropriate.
Prepare for the video consultation
- Keep original medicine packaging and an up-to-date medication list nearby.
- Use a written log rather than relying on memory for home readings.
- Check whether the clinic already has your records and whether tests are due.
- Ask early if subsidy, MediSave or insurer rules affect this particular visit; do not assume eligibility.
Registration does not establish that teleconsultation is suitable. The doctor may change the care route after hearing your history.
New to video visits? Read our first teleconsultation guide and check consultation, medication and delivery fees before joining.
For ongoing medicines, our prescription refill guide explains the difference between collecting an existing prescription and requesting a new review.
What a video consultation can—and cannot—do
MOH guidance says video consultations can be used for suitable follow-up care when the clinician has assessed that an in-person examination is not required. The doctor may review progress, adherence, readings and side effects and then discuss the next step.
A video visit is less suitable when there are new or worsening symptoms, missing observations, overdue tests or a need for physical examination. The safest outcome may be an in-person appointment even if the call began online.
When in-person assessment may be needed
Arrange prompt medical advice when any of these apply. This is not an exhaustive triage list.
- Symptoms are new, worsening or different from the established pattern
- Important measurements are unavailable or concerning
- A physical examination, blood test, imaging or procedure is due
- Medication side effects or interactions need closer assessment
- The clinician does not have enough history to manage the condition safely by video
When to seek urgent or emergency care
- Chest pain, severe breathlessness or signs of stroke
- Loss of consciousness, a seizure or severe confusion
- A severe allergic reaction or another rapidly worsening condition
- Any symptom for which your existing care plan tells you to seek emergency help
Follow your existing emergency or sick-day plan. Call 995 for a life-threatening emergency.
Common questions
Can every chronic-condition review be done by video?
No. Suitability depends on your condition, history, current symptoms and whether examination or tests are needed. The clinician decides the appropriate setting.
Can I get a repeat prescription without a review?
A prescription requires clinical judgment. Bring your medicine list, remaining supply and recent care information so the doctor can assess the request; a refill is not guaranteed.
Does CHAS or MediSave automatically cover this teleconsult?
No. Eligibility depends on the programme, clinic, condition, care relationship and current rules. Check with the clinic before relying on a subsidy or claim.
Sources & editorial note
- HealthHub / Ministry of Health: Using telemedicine the safe way
- Ministry of Health: Video Consultations at Polyclinics
- HealthHub: Understanding Medication for Chronic Illness
- Singapore Civil Defence Force: Emergency Medical Services
Sources checked on 26 September 2026. This original guide provides general information. It does not diagnose a condition, replace a consultation or cover every reason to seek care.