Skip to main content
A Singapore Government Agency Website How to identify
Official website links end with .gov.sg
Secure websites use HTTPS
Look for a lock () or https:// as an added precaution. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.
Government officials will never ask you to transfer money or disclose bank log-in details over a phone call.

Call the 24/7 ScamShield Helpline at 1799 if you are unsure if something is a scam.

Singapore Medical Council

Ethical Code and Ethical Guidelines

Current and past editions of the SMC Ethical Code and Ethical Guidelines

Last updated on 1 November 2026

The Singapore Medical Council (SMC) Ethical Code and Ethical Guidelines (ECEG) sets out the ethical and professional standards that the medical profession and the community expect of every registered medical practitioner in Singapore. The ECEG was developed in consultation with the medical profession and draws on the fundamental tenets of medical ethics, with due consideration for the circumstances of medical practice in Singapore.

The ECEG is principles-based, and it gives medical practitioners a framework for their own professional judgment as they apply these principles to the wide range of situations they meet in clinical practice, including situations that the ECEG does not expressly address. Medical practitioners are therefore expected to internalise the ethical responsibilities set out in the ECEG and to fulfil them in accordance with its spirit and intent.

The ECEG also explains to the public the values and standards that guide the medical profession. Through it, the SMC seeks to uphold the trust that patients and society place in medical practitioners and the privilege of self-regulation that the profession enjoys.

The SMC reviews the ECEG periodically so that it stays relevant to developments in medical practice and the law. All medical practitioners should familiarise themselves with the version of the ECEG currently in force and make its principles part of their daily practice.

The 2016 edition of the ECEG came into force on 1 January 2017 (except for Guideline H3(7) which came into force on 1 July 2017).

The revisions to the ECEG that were published on 1 November 2026 will come into force on 1 January 2027. On 1 January 2027, the 2016 edition of the ECEG will no longer be applicable.

Revised ECEG coming into force on 1 January 2027

2016 ECEG (in force from 1 January 2017 to 31 December 2026, except guideline H3(7), which is in force from 1 July 2017 to 31 December 2026) and applicable documents

Prior versions of the ECEG