MINISTRY OF HEALTH (MOH)Required to operate

Hospital Licence

The Hospital Licence is required by the Ministry of Health (MOH) in Singapore for facilities providing lodging, treatment, and care for individuals requiring medical attention or suffering from diseases. The validity period is confirmed by the agency, and processing time can be found on the agency's website.

Processing time
available on the agency's website
Issuing authority
MINISTRY OF HEALTH (MOH)

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Who needs the Hospital Licence

This licence applies to Singapore businesses registered under the following SSIC industry codes:

What's involved in getting the Hospital Licence

The scope of the application — what must be in place, how the agency reviews, and where applications typically stall.

What this licence allows the business to do

The Hospital Licence enables a facility to provide essential medical services, including lodging, treatment, and care for patients with various health conditions. This licence is crucial for any establishment aiming to operate as a hospital or medical care facility in Singapore.

What must be in place before the licence can be granted

Before the Hospital Licence can be issued, several conditions must be met. The facility must have appropriate infrastructure and equipment to ensure patient safety and care. This includes compliance with health and safety regulations, qualified medical staff, and necessary medical supplies. Additionally, the facility must adhere to standards set by the Ministry of Health regarding patient care and treatment protocols.

How the agency reviews and decides

The Ministry of Health conducts a thorough review of the application, which may include inspections of the facility to ensure compliance with health regulations. The agency evaluates the facility's readiness to provide medical services and the qualifications of the medical personnel involved. This review process is critical to ensure that the facility meets the required standards for patient care.

Common reasons applications stall

Applications for the Hospital Licence can face delays for several reasons. Common issues include inadequate documentation regarding the facility's compliance with health regulations, lack of qualified medical staff, or failure to meet safety standards. Additionally, discrepancies in the facility's operational plans or insufficient medical equipment can also lead to application stalls. Ensuring all requirements are met before submission can help mitigate these risks.

Hospital Licence FAQ

Do I need this licence to start operating?

Yes, obtaining a Hospital Licence is mandatory for any facility intending to provide medical treatment and care in Singapore. Operating without this licence can lead to legal repercussions and penalties.

What can my business do once licensed?

Once licensed, your facility can legally provide lodging, treatment, and care for patients requiring medical attention. This includes offering various medical services and ensuring compliance with health regulations.

What happens if I operate without it?

Operating a medical facility without a Hospital Licence is illegal in Singapore and can result in severe penalties, including fines and closure of the facility. It is essential to secure the licence before commencing operations.

How does this fit relative to incorporating my company?

Securing a Hospital Licence is a critical step that should be considered alongside incorporating your company. It is advisable to ensure that all necessary licences are in place before commencing operations to avoid legal complications.

What's the most common reason applications get rejected?

The most common reasons for rejection include failure to meet health and safety standards, inadequate documentation regarding staff qualifications, and non-compliance with operational protocols set by the Ministry of Health.

Can a foreign-owned company hold this licence?

Yes, foreign-owned companies can apply for a Hospital Licence in Singapore, provided they meet all regulatory requirements and have the necessary infrastructure and qualified personnel in place.

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Other MOH licences