1. Saves time and money
   
   When a case goes to court, all parties incur legal and court fees which can be a significant amount, especially if the case takes years to resolve.
   
   Mediation is cheaper and faster. Most mediations are completed within four hours​​.
   
   

   Here’s what each party will pay for mediation with:
   
   ​Healthcare Mediation Scheme
   

   	Public healthcare institutions	Private healthcare institutions
   Mediation fee	First 2 hours free, followed by S$300 per hour	First hour free, followed by S$550 per hour
   Admin fee	$150	$250

   
   Small Case Mediation Scheme
   
   Mediation Fee        First 3 hours free, followed by S$65 per hour
   Admin Fee               S$65 
   
   
2. You have more control
   
   Once the case goes to court, you have no control over the result as a judge makes the decision.
   At mediation, you have control over the result as any agreement requires your consent.
   
   
3. You don’t need a lawyer
   As mediation aims to help you move on in the best way possible, the focus is on solutions and not legal issues. Therefore, you do not need a lawyer to attend mediation. However, if you need legal advice, you can consult a lawyer at your own expense.
   
   
4. Specialised panel
   Two neutral and impartial mediators (typically a medical expert and a legal expert) will be appointed by the Singapore Mediation Centre, which helps to conduct each mediation. Our panel of mediators includes retired judges, senior lawyers, professors, medical professionals and counsellors. All of them are experienced in handling healthcare disputes.
   
   
5. Confidential
   All information shared at mediation is strictly private and confidential.

Nearly all healthcare disputes are suitable for mediation. For mediation to be effective, parties should mediate in good faith and participate with an open mind. Disputes involving an issue of public policy or a criminal offence may be unsuitable for mediation.

As mediation is a voluntary process, all parties have to agree to mediate. A mediation cannot be held if a party does not want to mediate.

The mediators are independent and neutral. The Singapore Mediation Centre appoints mediators for each mediation held under the Healthcare Mediation Scheme. Mediators are also required to go through a conflict of interest check before accepting an appointment.

Mediators do not have the power to investigate any claims or make orders against any party. Investigations and disciplinary action against doctors are done by the Singapore Medical Council (6372 3065 or www.smc.gov.sg).

Yes. A mediated settlement agreement is a legally binding contract and parties are obliged to comply with its terms. Parties are also bound by the confidentiality rules as set out in the agreement.

Please contact the Unit at (65) 9116 9364 or email us at [email protected].​