Consumer Protection for Long-term Cord Blood Bank Contracts and Safeguards Against Regulatory Lapses

Dr Hamid Razak asked the Coordinating Minister for Social Policies and Minister for Health (a) whether the Ministry coordinates with the Consumers Association of Singapore on complaints involving long-term contracts entered into with licensed cord blood banks; and (b) whether there are plans to introduce baseline safeguards, such as clearer disclosure and reasonable exit or transfer options, where there are regulatory lapses on the handling of cord blood affecting consumers.

Mr Ong Ye Kung: The Ministry of Health (MOH) does not coordinate with the Consumers Association of Singapore (CASE) on complaints involving contracts between cord blood banks and their clients. Cord blood banks are regulated by MOH under the Healthcare Services Act primarily to ensure the safety of cord blood for use in treatment. However, cord blood banking is an elective, commercial service provided by the private sector. Contractual matters relating to storage are private agreements between cord blood banks and their clients, and not where the Government can intervene.

Parents should directly approach the cord blood banks if they wish to exit their contract, transfer their cord blood or seek recourse with respect to contractual matters. They may also approach CASE for assistance over their contractual disputes.

Presently, the Healthcare Services (Cord Blood Banking Service) Regulations 2021 already establishes the need to have formal arrangements for the prompt restoration of services or transfer of cord blood to another licensed provider, including the need to seek express written consent for any such transfer in the event of any service disruption. MOH will review areas to strengthen these regulations, where appropriate.