Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) is a go-to for many in Singapore looking for a more natural route to health. But what happens when things don’t go quite right? You may have placed your trust in a practitioner, only to experience unexpected pain, side effects, or even lasting injuries. It’s a situation no one wants to be in, and it can leave you feeling frustrated, confused, and unsure where to turn.
If you’re wondering what to do if my TCM treatment went wrong in Singapore, this blog will walk you through the steps you can take to protect yourself, explore your legal options, and get the support you deserve.
1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately
No matter how minor your symptoms might seem, your first priority should always be your health. If you start experiencing pain, swelling, infection, or any other unusual symptoms after your TCM treatment, don’t brush it off or assume it will pass. Head to a clinic or hospital as soon as possible. A GP or emergency doctor can assess your condition properly, provide treatment, and most importantly, document your injuries.
These medical records will not only help in your recovery but may also serve as important evidence later if you decide to pursue a complaint or legal action. Keep all medical receipts, diagnosis reports, prescriptions, and photographs of your injuries in one safe place.
2. Report The Incident To The TCM Practitioners Board
If you believe the treatment was done carelessly or you weren’t properly informed about the risks, it’s within your rights to lodge a formal complaint. In Singapore, TCM is regulated by the TCM Practitioners Board (TCMPB) under the Ministry of Health. The Board is responsible for maintaining standards and taking action against misconduct or malpractice.
You can file a complaint directly through their official website or by sending in a written letter. Be sure to include as much detail as you can, such as the practitioner’s name, clinic details, what happened, and when.
The Board will review your case and investigate whether the practitioner failed to meet professional standards. If wrongdoing is found, they may face suspension, fines, or even be struck off the register.
3. Document Everything
You’d be surprised how important your own notes can become later on. From the moment you suspect something isn’t right, start keeping a record of everything. Note down your symptoms, any communication with the practitioner, and the exact treatments you received. If anything was said that concerned you or felt unprofessional, jot that down too.
Photos of physical injuries, rashes, or visible changes are extremely useful. Keep receipts, medical reports, appointment slips, anything that helps paint a clear picture of what happened. The more complete your documentation, the stronger your position will be if you need to explain your experience to the TCM Board, insurers, or the Courts.
4. Consider Making A Legal Claim
If the treatment resulted in long-lasting harm or significantly affected your daily life, you may have a right to seek compensation through a legal claim. This is particularly important if you’ve had to miss work, undergo corrective medical treatment, or deal with emotional distress due to the incident.
To succeed in a claim, you’ll need to prove that the TCM practitioner owed you a duty of care, that they breached that duty, and that their actions (or lack of proper care) directly caused your injury. This isn’t always easy, especially with traditional therapies that don’t follow the same protocols as Western medicine.
That’s why it helps to speak with a lawyer familiar with both Singapore’s legal system and how TCM treatments are practised here. At this point, legal advice becomes more than helpful, it can shape the outcome of your entire case.
5. Explore Mediation Before Court
Going to Court isn’t always the best first step. It can be time-consuming, costly, and emotionally taxing. Before taking that route, consider mediation. In many cases, mediation allows you and the TCM practitioner (or clinic) to reach a settlement with the help of a neutral third party.
The advantage of mediation is that it’s usually quicker, private, and can feel less confrontational. It also gives both sides more control over the outcome compared to a Court ruling. If successful, it could save you a lot of time and stress while still achieving a fair resolution.
6. Take Legal Action If Necessary
If mediation doesn’t lead to a fair resolution, or if the harm you’ve suffered is significant, you still have the option to pursue legal action through the Courts. In Singapore, such claims are usually handled as civil lawsuits for negligence. Depending on the severity and amount of damages sought, your case may be heard in the State Courts or the High Court.
Your lawyer will prepare your claim, gather evidence, and represent you through the process. The goal is to help you get compensation for your losses, be it medical costs, lost income, or pain and suffering. Although going to Court is a bigger step, it may be necessary to hold the practitioner accountable and seek justice for the harm caused.
Conclusion About Things To Do If TCM Treatment Went Wrong In Singapore
Mistakes in TCM treatment can leave a real impact, not just physically, but emotionally and financially too. Knowing what to do if my TCM treatment went wrong in Singapore can make all the difference when you’re trying to recover and move on.
If you believe your TCM practitioner failed in their duty of care, take action, start by protecting your health, collecting evidence, and getting the legal advice you need.
Reach out to Tembusu Law today. Your peace of mind matters, and our team of the best criminal lawyers in Singapore is ready to help you take the next step.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things To Do If TCM Treatment Went Wrong In Singapore
Can I Sue A TCM Practitioner For Medical Negligence?
Yes, if you can show that the practitioner breached their duty of care and caused you harm, you may have grounds to file a negligence claim.
How Do I File A Complaint Against A TCM Practitioner?
You can lodge a complaint with the TCM Practitioners Board through their website or by mail. Include as many details and supporting documents as possible.
Do I Have To Go To Court?
Not always. Many disputes can be resolved through mediation, but if a fair outcome isn’t reached, taking the matter to Court may be necessary.
How Long Do I Have To File A Legal Claim?
In Singapore, you generally have up to three years from the date of injury (or the date you became aware of it) to file a negligence claim.
Is TCM Regulated In Singapore?
Yes, TCM is regulated under the Traditional Chinese Medicine Practitioners Act. Only registered practitioners are legally allowed to practise.
