As long as your licence conditions say, which MOH's FAQ gives as 6 years for outpatient records, counted from the last consultation or treatment. Keep them accurate, signed and secure for the whole period.
Where the period comes from
Retention periods are set by licence conditions under the General Regulations. MOH's FAQ on retention gives 6 years for outpatient records, counted from the last consultation or treatment.1 Every licensee must comply with its regulations and conditions.2
- Set the period. Match retention to your licence conditions for each service.
- Record at the time. Notes written and signed during or right after the visit.
- Control access. Role-based access, with every read logged.
- Plan for exit. Records must survive a change of system. Make sure they can be exported.
- Prepare for NEHR. Key health information contributed under the Health Information Act when it applies.
- Services and retention period ______
- Where records are hosted ______
- Who can access, by role ______
- How records are exported on request ______
- NEHR batch and deadline ______
Questions
When does the retention period start?
After the last consultation or treatment, per MOH's FAQ.
Can paper records be destroyed early?
Follow your licence conditions. MOH's FAQ sets out when paper records may be culled.
Does the Health Information Act change retention?
It adds NEHR contribution duties when it commences. Retention stays with the licence conditions.
Sources
- 1Ministry of Health, 2025FAQs on the retention period of patient health recordsRead source
- 2MOH, HCSA, 2026Summary of requirements for licenseesRead source
Written by the wai team from Healthcare Services Act licensing, Singapore guidance, checked on 15 October 2026. This is guidance, not legal advice. HCSA does not endorse wai or any software.