We thank Ms Tan Yen Ling for her letter published on 16 Aug (Wed) "Show Details of Herbs in TCM medication".

MINDEF and the SAF recognise Medical Certificates issued by any medical practitioner registered under the Medical Registration Act (MRA) for the purpose of granting paid sick leave. As TCM Practitioners are not registered under the MRA, we do not recognise Medical Certificates issued by them. This is in line with the national guidelines prescribed in the Employment Act. In line with the Public Service's policies on medical benefits, our service personnel can only claim for expenses incurred at all Government Polyclinics, Specialist Outpatient Clinics, Government restructured hospitals, as well as private clinics and hospitals registered under the Private Hospitals & Medical Clinics Act.

MINDEF has reached out to Ms Tan to understand her situation and assist where possible.

Ho Chin Ning

Director Manpower

Ministry of Defence