Advance Medical Directive (AMD) in Singapore
An Advance Medical Directive (AMD) in Singapore is a legal document that allows a person to state in advance their wishes regarding extraordinary life-sustaining treatment if they become terminally ill and unable to express their views.
AMD is intended to be made while a person is mentally capable — so medical decisions can be respected without placing loved ones under pressure during difficult moments.
Summary (Quick Take)
- AMD is a legal document in Singapore that applies only under specific end-of-life conditions
- It relates to extraordinary life-sustaining treatment when a person is terminally ill and unconscious
- AMD does not apply to routine medical care or general healthcare decisions
- AMD complements ACP and LPA, but does not replace them
- Understanding AMD does not require immediate decisions — many families take time to reflect
What is an Advance Medical Directive (AMD)?
An Advance Medical Directive is a formal document recognised in Singapore that communicates a person’s wishes about medical treatment in very specific end-of-life circumstances.
It applies only when strict medical and legal conditions are met.
A simple way to understand AMD is:
AMD records a specific instruction for defined end-of-life medical situations.
What does an AMD cover?
AMD specifically addresses the use of extraordinary life-sustaining treatment when a person is:
- terminally ill, and
- unconscious, and
- unable to express their views, and
- meets the strict criteria required for AMD to apply
It does not apply to:
- routine medical treatment
- general healthcare decisions
- non-terminal situations
- day-to-day hospitalisation choices
Who should consider making an AMD in Singapore?
In Singapore, AMD may be considered by adults who wish to clearly state their preferences regarding extraordinary medical treatment in specific end-of-life situations.
Some individuals choose to make an AMD as part of early planning, while others consider it after reflecting on:
- personal values
- family experiences
- the emotional burden loved ones may face during crisis moments
Making an AMD is a personal decision and is not suitable or necessary for everyone.
How AMD differs from ACP and LPA
In Singapore, ACP, LPA, and AMD are often discussed together, but each serves a distinct and complementary role.
AMD and ACP
Advance Care Planning (ACP) focuses on values, preferences, and communication — helping families understand what matters most.
AMD, on the other hand, is a specific legal document dealing with defined end-of-life medical situations.
AMD and LPA
Lasting Power of Attorney (LPA) appoints decision-makers to act on a person’s behalf if mental capacity is lost.
AMD records a person’s own instruction for defined circumstances, while LPA is about who can decide when the person cannot.
When should an AMD be made?
An AMD must be made while a person has full mental capacity.
Many people take time to understand AMD before deciding whether it aligns with their:
- beliefs
- values
- family considerations
AMD should never feel rushed. A calm understanding is often the best starting point.
A practical checklist (before considering AMD)
You do not need to decide immediately.
A calm checklist that many Singapore families find helpful:
- Do I understand what AMD applies to (and what it does not)?
- Have I spoken to family members about why I may / may not want AMD?
- Is my preference based on values (comfort, dignity, burden on family)?
- Have I explored ACP first (values and care goals)?
- If I lose mental capacity, have I considered LPA (who can decide)?
- Do I need time to reflect before taking any step?
Frequently asked questions about AMD in Singapore
1) Is AMD mandatory in Singapore?
No. Making an Advance Medical Directive (AMD) in Singapore is voluntary.
2) Can an AMD be changed?
Yes. An AMD can be revoked or updated as long as the person still has mental capacity.
3) Does AMD apply in all medical situations?
No. AMD applies only under specific end-of-life conditions as defined by medical and legal guidelines.
4) Does AMD apply to routine hospital treatment or day-to-day decisions?
No. AMD does not cover general healthcare decisions or routine treatment. It is intended for specific end-of-life circumstances only.
5) Is AMD the same as ACP?
No. ACP focuses on values and communication about future care preferences. AMD is a specific legal document addressing extraordinary life-sustaining treatment under defined conditions.
6) Is AMD the same as LPA?
No. LPA appoints decision-makers if mental capacity is lost. AMD records the person’s own directive for defined end-of-life medical situations.
7) Do I have to decide immediately after reading about AMD?
No. Many people begin by understanding AMD first. Taking time to reflect is completely normal and appropriate.
Understanding AMD does not require immediate decisions
Many people begin by understanding what AMD means before deciding whether it fits their values and circumstances.
Need guidance on where to begin?
We provide educational guidance to help individuals and families understand AMD — and how it differs from ACP and LPA — so decisions are made with confidence, not pressure.
Prefer a simple message instead? You may also reach out via WhatsApp when you are ready.