Seems the Singapore AIP is the same as ours in respect of notifying urgent situations.
http://www.caas.gov.sg/caasWeb/expor...?__locale=null
(Bottom of page 15)
9.2.2 The pilot also retains the option of initiating the communication using the urgency call “PAN-PAN” 3
times to alert all listening parties of a special handling condition which will receive ATC priority for
issuance of a clearance or assistance.
Why the SQ crew didn't advise ATC in the appropriate manner of a medical situation that would give them priority, was as unfortunate as why the Aus ATCer was asking if they were declaring "AIR MED 1", which had me looking it up in the AIP. (never heard of it before, but it is in the AUS AIP, though I doubt to be used as RT phraseology). As Condition Lever says, how about we all sing from the same Hymn Book.