Measures to Ensure Medical Institutions Offering Elective Egg-freezing Observe Optimal Temperature Requirements

27 Mr Melvin Yong Yik Chye asked the Minister for Health (a) what measures are put in place to ensure that medical institutions offering elective egg-freezing store the eggs in an optimal temperature; and (b) how often does the Ministry audit these institutions.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: Elective egg-freezing are offered only by licensed Assisted Reproduction Services providers. Licensees must comply with the regulatory requirements, including storing the eggs in under optimal temperatures.

Licensees are also required to implement measures, such as to establish an effective quality management system, provide uninterrupted electrical supply, implement proper monitoring procedures for temperature control, put in place immediate notification, response and investigation protocols for deviations beyond acceptable ranges and address any inadequacies to prevent future occurrences. Licensed providers are subject to routine inspections once every two years; and additional targeted audits or unannounced inspections.