me+SH (April 2008) by me+SH

Aprilâ&#x20AC;&#x201C;June 08

A SingHealth staff magazine

Definitions and Reinventions

The True Meaning of Healthcare

Living Art

At Home With A/Prof Tay Eng Hseon

Features

The True Meaning of Healthcare Gain insights from Prof Tan Ser Kiat, SingHealth GCEO, on how the ethos of healthcare underlies the cutting edge of medicine.

Virtual World for Healthcare Professionals Go online to harness revolutionary internet technology for healthcare.

Reinvent through me+SH—get the full picture from Guest Editor, DCEO Karen Koh Picture perfect—our cover models & content contributors up close

01-02 me+YOU • •

Redefining quality in healthcare Spotlight on talents

03-07 me+YOU

me+FOCUS

•

me+FOCUS

Regulars

Living Art Get to know A/Prof Tay Eng Hseon, CMB, KKH, and how he recharges through his love for art, travel and history.

me+LIVING

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Snapshots of celebrations & quality conventions

12-15

me+HIGHLIGHTS •

Revisiting the World Wide Web—virtual journals & online communities

18-20

me+FOCUS • •

Redesign at work Innovations in the workplace

21 me+SPOTLIGHT

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This quarter in history What’s next?

32 me+HORIZON

Lifestyle • • • •

Revelations and caffeine confessions Reviews of cool meeting places Renewal at the Shwedagon Pagoda Re-energise with core muscle training

SingHealth Editorial Team Tan-Huang Shuo Mei Amelia Champion Katheryn Maung Sia Jia Hui Mediactive Editorial and Design Team Lyon Low Florence Long Janalin Tan Sofina Tan Eunice Gracilia Jonathan Cai Zili Mediactive Pte Ltd 65 Ubi Crescent #06-07 Hola Centre Singapore 408559 T: 6846 4168 | F: 6846 4768 info@mediactive.com.sg www.mediactive.com.sg

23-29

me+LIVING •

Free Cuppa

at Geek Terminal

24 SingHealth Staff Promotion • •

Heartwarming stories, jokes, and cool comics Compliments

30 me+SMILES

All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited without the written permission of SingHealth and the publisher. The views and opinions expressed or implied in the publication are those of the authors or contributors and do not necessarily reflect those of SingHealth and the publisher. Whilst due care has been exercised, both SingHealth and the publisher do not accept responsibility for errors in advertisements or articles, unsolicited manuscripts, photographs or illustrations.

MICA(P) 234/03/2008

me+SingHealth or me+SH represents who we are in SingHealth—as intertwining threads conveying synergy and complementing one another to form a beautiful fabric. me+SH is a platform for staff engagement and a magazine to keep you informed about happenings within the SingHealth group and the healthcare industry.

Medical Excellence, Genuine Care

Editor me+YOU

Guest

einventing ourselves through me+SH

“Can a painting really paint a thousand words?”

believe it can. I had the privilege of watching the late Master Artist Chua Ek Kay paint what was to become the symbol of SingHealth on a piece of canvas. The now-familiar brush stroke, simple yet definitive, speaks volume of what SingHealth is and hopes to be—dynamic, energetic, and built on a strong foundation. To me, that also describes how change and innovation can be—turning a canvas that is otherwise plain into a vibrant work of art. Never static, constantly moving forward, SingHealth is full of energy and dynamism, the canvas for new ideas and the icon for innovation.

Mrs Karen Koh, Deputy CEO, SingHealth

To quote Jack Welch, former CEO of General Electric, it is the willingness to change that strengthens us. We are the change agents. We are the ones who paint SingHealth’s canvas for constant improvement and reinvention.

And reinvent ourselves we will, but we cannot do it without you. At the SingHealth Quality Convention early this year, we saw a clear picture of our singular goal in providing quality care for our patients. True to what our Chairman Mr Bernard Chen said at his keynote address at the convention, I hope to see us committed to deliver quality healthcare. As we step into the next financial year, it is my wish that the goal of providing TLC—tender loving care—for our patients be carved into our hearts and minds.

It is my hope that me+SH will grow to become a canvas for our creativity and innovation—an active platform for staff engagement. I look forward to reading your stories, your joys, and even challenges you face, on these very pages that you hold in your hands. I hope me+SH can be a common ground for SingHealth to tell our individual, yet at the same time, interconnected stories. So, once the painting is complete, what’s next? Take another canvas, start another painting and tell another great story. Turn the page. Keep reading. Keep growing.

1. 2.

Master Artist Chua Ek Kay and the SingHealth logo—expressing dynamism, improvement and progressiveness. Building the big picture together— SingHealth’s GCEO, DCEO and senior management painting the SingHealth logo at the inaugural Pulse of SingHealth in 2003.

Discover and me+YOU

Be Discovered!

A local bank ran an intriguing advertising campaign with the tagline “Stay Curious”. We are all curious by nature, enjoying the revelation of the unknown, unearthing an interesting fact or just expanding our boundaries of knowledge. Every issue of me+SH offers you a world of discoveries. For our inaugural issue, we pique your curiousity to find out more about our cover models.

Who’s on the cover With reinvention, all of us play a part in building the big picture. In this issue, we feature: 1 Patrick Stephen Gallagher Policy Analyst, Health Services Research, SingHealth. Patrick’s trip into Chinatown during the Lunar New Year proves to be a funfilled diversion from his usual routine. Read more on page 25.

2 Eric Ho Senior Physiotherapist, SGH LIFE Centre. Eric demonstrates how to re-energise the body with core strength training.

Read more on page 28.

Hear Our Contributors

4 Dr Nora Heng Registrar, Periodontics Unit, Dept of Restorative Dentistry. NDC. Find out how to get a megawatt smile by reading Nora’s perspectives on caffeine.

In the spirit of reinvention, we ask our contributors their ideas for extreme makeover.

If you are offered a room ‘make-over’, what colour would you choose to paint the walls?

Ma Yi Mon Soe, Staff Nurse, SGH I would paint my walls a creamy yellow—bright, sunny and cheerful, just like my personality. Currently my walls are white which is very plain. So I hang lots of colourful photographs and paintings to brighten up the room.

A/Prof Tay Eng Hseon, Chairman, Medical Board, KKH Presently in my house, I have used wood of various shades in different areas. The floor is black and there is some green in the furniture. As I like contrasting colours, I would paint my wall a light blue (for calmness) so that it stands apart from the bold floor. Read about A/Prof Tay’s love for art on pages 26 and 27.

Patrick Stephen Gallagher, Policy Analyst, Health Services Research, SingHealth I would choose red for the walls... for good luck. Nah, just kidding. I would paint each wall a slightly different shade of off-white depending on the lighting, windows, and furniture/paintings to fill the space. I like to wake up early in the morning so a white room with sunlight streaming in is a great way to start the day.

he Second Annual International Conference of the Asia Pacific Society for Healthcare Quality 2008 was held in Singapore for the very first time from 17-19 January. Noted for its vanguard status in redefining quality in healthcare, this year’s conference was organised by SGH PGMI and attended by some 600 delegates from over 20 countries. Among the delegates were national health policy leaders and decision-makers, academia, healthcare professionals in all disciplines, hospital administrators, accreditation and consumer organisations as well as CEOs, CMBs and leaders from SingHealth institutions. Leading local and international experts addressed a wide range of topics including patient safety, innovations in quality, infection control, chronic disease management, certification and accreditation, clinical governance and performance management, all with a focus on Asia.

Prof Tan Ser Kiat, SingHealth’s Group CEO, next kicked off the first plenary session with the topic “Building Brand and Trust: Enhancing Reputation through Quality in Healthcare”. The session explored elements that make a healthcare organisation the preferred choice of patients. In fact, it is an institution that ensures consistency, reliability, safety and quality across the whole organisation that will build up such a reputation for itself.

Building SingHealth’s Reputation From Inside Out: Branding = Image that stands out Reputation = Trust + Relationship Building SingHealth’s reputation as a trusted healthcare provider from inside out involves firstly, a clear definition of vision; secondly, the dissemination of values, and thirdly, the delivery of excellent services. Therefore it is fundamental for healthcare organisations to have the people, systems and processes in place, to facilitate this. In his opening address, guest of honour Mr Khaw Boon Wan, Minister for Health, stressed the need to better understand health quality and to forge a greater consensus on what areas should be centred upon. “And let us focus spending on basic clinical care, particularly when we as Government are making resource allocation decisions on behalf of taxpayers”, said Mr Khaw. “Our duty is to focus on delivering care that is safe, effective, patient-centred, timely, efficient and equitable.” He added that the challenge is to speed up the adoption of discoveries that have been proven effective, into treatments, procedures and care processes. To achieve this, the Ministry of Health has put in place the Health Quality Improvement Fund to pilot clinical quality improvement projects for the benefit of improving patient care.

2nd International Conference of the Asia Pacific Society for Healthcare Quality 2008 Date: Thursday, 17-19 January 2008 Venue: Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel What is APSHQ? Established in 2000, the Asia Pacific Society for Healthcare Quality (APSHQ) is made up of individual and organisational healthcare professionals dedicated to the ongoing development, advancement, and promotion of healthcare quality in Hong Kong and the Asia Pacific region.

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International Healthcare Quality Conference —APSHQ 2008

For more pictures of the event, refer to page 12.

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SingHealth Quality Convention 2008

Proves Quality is All About

TLC

SingHealth’s commitment to patients’ well-being

SingHealth Chairman Mr Bernard Chen

he 6th SingHealth Quality Convention, held on 19 January, saw over 1,000 staff in attendance. 127 quality improvement (QI) posters from each of the SingHealth institutions were displayed and awards were presented to individuals and institutions for their contributions. The plenary sessions featured thoughtprovoking topics from our hospitals’ clinician leaders like “Quality and Cost: Can we have both?” by Prof Fock Kwong Ming, CGH; “Physician Performance Audit—Is it just a game?” by Prof Ng Han Seong, SGH, and “The Often-Quoted Airline Experience: Different Class, Same Pilot—Is it really applicable to healthcare?” by A/Prof Tay Eng Hseon, KKH. An entertaining debate on the topic “Joint Commission International (JCI) Accreditation is essential for attaining quality care for a Singapore healthcare institution” by directors of Clinical Quality from the various SingHealth institutions, proved to be a high and enlightening point in the convention. Besides bringing compelling arguments to the platform, our debaters’ showmanship and humour contributed largely to the success of the session. In the end, it was the great show put up by the opposition team comprising Dr Ian Yeo

“For quality service, we need TLC—tender loving care—which implies compassion and attention. No matter who the patients are, we must have the same degree of compassion and commitment to fulfill their requirements and deliver good quality medicine,” says Chairman Mr Bernard Chen in his keynote address at SingHealth Quality Convention’08

Above: Winning opposition team in debate on JCI accreditation (From left to right: A/P Ong Biauw Chi, SGH; Dr Chua Eu Jin, NCCS; Dr Sin Yoong Kong, NHC, and Dr Ian Yeo, SNEC). Far Top: Giving the nod for quality healthcare.

(SNEC), Dr Sin Yoong Kong (NHC), A/Prof Ong Biauw Chi (SGH) and reserve Dr Chua Eu Jin (NCCS) that won the SingHealth Chairman Award for Winning Debate Team. Contrary to their debate arguments, the opposition team saw value in JCI. During an interview, the team summarised, “There is clearly a need for JCI. We must adjust JCI to further our quality agenda. To put it in perspective, JCI shouldn’t be a detractor. It’s the people who must play their part to ensure quality in healthcare. We need to be professional, take pride in our work and develop a strong SingHealth culture.”

CPIP-Training for a Purpose Clinical Practice Improvement Programme (CPIP) is a training programme for clinical leaders, managers, administrators, and potential leaders and managers. It provides specific training in quality improvement methodology, leadership, teamwork, evidence-based medicine, change management and their application in clinical settings, to improve patient care. Ms Deborah Wild, Assistant Director of SingHealth Quality Management, says: “CPIP is about the application of proven techniques and methodology to facilitate both effective diagnosis and solutions of clinical improvement projects. It improves our chances for success, and is good because it becomes a common language and approach for problem solving.” CPIP has benefited many. “CPIP truly allows us to identify and focus our resources on interventions that work,” says Dr Ong Kok Kiong, Senior Resident Physician from SHP-Bukit Merah and member of the SHP-Bukit Merah team, one of the winners of the CPIP Best Project Award. See me+spotlight on page 5 for details of award recipients.

winners

Congratulations to our winners at the 6th SingHealth Quality Convention. Your participation has contributed to making the event a success!

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wards

Kudos!

SingHealth Award for Best Participating Institution—SingHealth Polyclinic

BEST QUALITY IMPROVEMENT POSTERS CGH

Priscilla Chua

Reducing drug packing errors using bar code & visual aids

KKH

Pang Nguk Lan

Reduction in children’s emergency admission wait time

SGH

Dr Yang Wen-Shin

Reducing early dialysis catheter related septicaemia

NCCS

Ng Sze Yin

Evaluation of creative intervention designed to obtain paediatric cooperation during radiation therapy procedures using Novalis-shaped Beam Radiosurgery System

NDC

Dr Marianne Meng Ann Ong

Retrospective clinical audit of non-surgical periodontal therapy in patients with periodontal disease seen at the National Dental Centre in the year 2000

NHC

Anne Hoo

Inter-Hospital Extracorporeal Life Support (ECLS) Activation (this also won the CPIP Merit Award)

NNI

Dr Ng Wai Hoe

Multimedia Messaging Service (MMS) teleradiology in the provision of emergency neurosurgery services (this also won the SingHealth GCEO Award for Best QI Poster)

SNEC

Margaret Tan

Quality Care: Holistic care for diabetic patients

SHP

Dr Juliana Bahadin

TeleCARE@SHP—Redesigning our care delivery to optimise resources

SHS Corp Office

Hilda Ng

Chronic Disease Management Model for diabetes involving primary, tertiary care and community groups

CPIP WINNING PROJECTS Winners of Best Project Award KKH

Dr Kevin Lim

For all children with undisplaced supracondylar humeral fractures, to limit the number of scheduled outpatient clinic visits to two, by a period of six months

KKH

Dr Rashida Farhad Vasanwala

To optimise the care of all children with head injuries seen at KKH Children’s Emergency Department by eliminating the number of skull X-rays done to 0 per cent within six months

SHP

Dr Ong Kok Kiong Dr Lee Ching Ching

Improving laboratory waiting time in Bukit Merah Polyclinic

CGH

Dr Ong Sea Hing Dr Fasela Bte Jamal Mohd Dr Michelle Tan

Reducing door-to-balloon time for Primary Percutaneous Coronary Intervention (Pci) in an acute care hospital

Winners of Merit Project Award SHP

Dr Juliana Bahadin

ACE Inhibitor/ARB for all hypertensive diabetic patients* at Geylang Polyclinic (*except those with known contraindication to ACE Inhibitor/ARB)

SGH

Dr Yong Tze Tein Dr Poh Siew Tin Dr Joanne Yap Geok Lan

To achieve 60 percent same-day-admission in eligible elective O&G patients in three months

CGH

Dr Goh Ping Ping Dr Chua Gek Hong Dr Ong Siew Yit

To improve the appropriate utilisation of telemetry monitoring for patients with suspected cardiac arrhythmia

SGH

Dr Lee Lai Heng

To ensure all patients in haematology wards (Ward 72 and Ward 54H) receive timely initiation and cessation of hydration therapy

CGH

Sharon Seah

Ensure 100 per cent of patients with conservatively managed distal radius fractures have full composite flexion and extension of digits at point of cast removal within six months

CGH

Dr Lee Haw Chou Rubavathy Muthu Ng Nuri Syahida

To achieve 100 per cent compliance in correct, timely, adequate prophylactic antibiotic administration for hip fracture surgeries in Ward 46 within six months

KKH

Winnie Choo Yin Looi Paulin Koh

To increase usage of expressed breast milk in very low birthweight infant population by 15 percent over a six-month period

CGH

Dr Vina Doshi

Improving the identification & management of patients over the age of 65 with delirium in a geriatric ward

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GCEO Excellence Awards 2008

—our cluster’s highest honour for staff excellence

ailed as SingHealth’s highest honour, the GCEO Excellence Awards recognise outstanding employees for their contributions, dedication and achievements.The awards were given out during an awards ceremony in April 2008. In total, nine awards were presented to outstanding individuals who have attained excellence in their respective specialisations. Five winners of the Individual Excellence Awards for the professional groups: Medical, Nursing, Allied Health, Ancillary and Administration, each received a trophy and S$3,000 in cash. In addition, four winners of the Open Category Awards for Excellence in Clinical Service, Education, Clinical Research and Biomedical Research, each received a Medal of Excellence.

Each winner has gone through a stringent selection process which began with a nomination by a SingHealth employee. Upon confirmation by the nominee’s Head of Department, a write-up was submitted to the Human Resource Department of the nominee’s institution providing evidence and examples of the nominee’s shining performance and service. Subsequently a panel of judges, with extensive experience in their fields, presided over the final decision for the award winners. Judges for the professional categories of Medical, Nursing, Allied Health include: • Prof Feng Pao Hsi, former CMB of TTSH • Dr Lau Hong Choon, Director of Manpower Standards, Ministry of Health • Ms Lee Yoke Lan, Trustee of HSEU and former Matron of KKH Judges for the professional categories of Ancillary and Administration were: • Ms Nancy Tan, Director of HR and Talent Development, MOH Holdings • Mr Francis Lee, Assistant Director of Healthcare, Retail and Services Division, Workforce Development Agency • Ms Rosalin Ang, Deputy Director of Nursing, Nanyang Polytechnic Judges for the open category were: • Prof Patrick Casey, Senior Vice Dean for Research, Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School • Dr Edwin Low, Executive Director, National Medical Research Council • Prof Annie Koh, Dean of Executive and Professional Education, Singapore Management University. Look out for the winners in the next issue of me+SH.

is a SingHealth initiative to empower professional staff development. About $8.5million has been set aside this year for the sponsorship of specific training and developmental needs of medical, nursing, allied health, research and administrative personnel. TDF participants Saryna Ong (Allied Health) and Dr Png Hong Hock (Nursing) share with us how the fund has benefited them.

Dr Pearlie Tan (2nd from left) at her university’s graduation ball.

IMGs are doctors who received their medical education overseas but have returned to Singapore to contribute to the vibrant medical scene here. me+SH catches up with Dr Pearlie Tan to find out more about her decision to come back to Singapore, in particular, to serve in public healthcare.

Dr Pearlie Tan Woon Woon Saryna Ong Sok Hoon Senior Medical Social Worker, NCCS Currently in Australia pursuing her one-and-a-half-year Master’s degree in mental health with specialisation in Art Therapy at the School of Medicine in the University of Queensland. “Art therapy resonates with me,” Saryna explains. She finds the treatment modality particularly helpful for patients with speech difficulties and people with emotional turmoil, as well as for young and teenaged children of cancer patients. She adds, “The TDF has given me the opportunity to pursue my interest. It is indeed a privilege to be able to learn from the very experienced, skilled and renowned art therapists and psychotherapists here.”

Dr Png Hong Hock Deputy Director of Nursing, Nursing Division, SGH As part of the requirements for a three-year programme that Dr Png must complete to become a fellow of the American College of Healthcare Executives (ACHE), the TDF Recipient for 2007 under the Administrators Category, will attend a seminar with the theme Gold Standard Management: Powering the New American Hospital. Dr Png appreciates the fact that SingHealth recognises its staff. “Being awarded a TDF grant lets you know that your talents and contributions are acknowledged,” she says.

Department of Hand Surgery, SGH Dr Pearlie Tan returned to Singapore upon her graduation from the University of London in 2004. “I was aware of the rapidly expanding healthcare industry in Singapore. I knew it was the right time to come home and be part of what is already known world-wide as a first class health service,” she says. Her goal is to absorb all the teaching made available to her at SingHealth and to become a well-trained surgeon. She explains: “I want to be able to contribute not just in Singapore, but in the neighbouring region as well, in particular, volunteering abroad to areas where people who need surgery aren’t as fortunate as us in being able to gain access to comprehensive healthcare services.”

SingHealth—HSEU Bursary Grant Award Ceremony 2007 Focusing on grooming future talent, the SingHealthHSEU (Healthcare Services Employees’ Union) bursary grants, with a total contribution of $30,000 from SingHealth and the HSEU, seek to award children of SingHealth staff. The aim of giving out the awards was to provide additional support for families. More importantly, it helps to spur the future generation to continue to strive for excellence and enable them to reach their full potential. 217 beaming faces attended the SingHealth-HSEU Bursary Grant Award Ceremony held on 12 December 2007 at Changi General Hospital Auditorium. These included children of 138 SingHealth staff who are HSEU members. In his opening speech, guest of honour SingHealth GCEO Prof Tan Ser Kiat encouraged the students to strive for excellence and enjoy the learning journey, SingHealth Group HR Director, Geraldine Lee, hosted a ‘live’ chat session with two bursary recipients, Abdul Hadi and Sumathi d/o Regunathan, both Singapore Polytechnic students. They shared their life aspirations, motivations, and what they admired in their role models.

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Profile on an International Medical Graduate (IMG)

THE Talent Development Fund (TDF)

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In The News

SingHealth Corporate Office SingHealth Hosts Distinguished ClinicalLeader SingHealth played host to Dr Harvey V. Fineberg, current President of the Institute of Medicine, USA, on 3 March 2008. A prolific author and Harvard alumnus, Dr Fineberg has chaired and served on a number of panels, including the World Health Organisation. He is actively involved in the areas of worldwide public health, policy development, assessment of technology, evaluation of vaccines and dissemination of medical innovations. Speaking on the topic “Adopting Medical Innovations: Personalised Medicine and Patient-Centered Care” at the SGH Postgraduate Medical Institute, Dr Fineberg opined that personalised medicine may increasingly help clinicians make more refined judgements and predict side effects during diagnosis.

Spotlight on Silver Connection SingHealth’s award-winning Silver Connection Programme, known for its efforts in re-engaging mature staff in the workforce, was selected as the basis of a research project undertaken by a SMU student team, ‘The Young Silver Connection’. They went on to win third place at the Grand Finals of the ‘Singapore HR Challenge 2008’ organised by the Singapore Human Resources Institute (SHRI) on 2 February 2008. Programme consultant, former retiree Helen Lim, so impressed the SMU team that one of its members, Ho Siong Yew, wrote: “Many of you possess energy even Gen Y’s like us could not emulate, let alone surpass. Though Silver Connection might just be a small movement now, I believe one day it can become a platform for many HR programmes to emulate.” Channel NewsAsia also featured Silver Connection in a documentary series entitled Boomers. In it, SingHealth DCEO Mrs Karen Koh, spoke about how we value mature staff and the objectives behind our Silver Connection Movement.

Where To Park On Campus? SingHealth has undertaken the following measures to address the lack of parking spaces on the Outram Campus. Firstly, staff Car Park G (70 lots) has been converted into a public car park. Secondly, stack parking—a free value-added service whereby traffic attendants will park your car at no additional charge, on a first-come-first-served basis—is now available at Car Parks C and E during peak hours. Motorists will also be directed to alternate car parks at the Health Promotion Board and the URA car park along Hospital Drive (opposite former School of Nursing Building). Regular shuttle bus services from Outram MRT station, SGH and specialty centres on the Outram Campus will continue to operate.

SINGHEALTH PICKS UP CIO ASIA AWARDS FOR DIGITAL WARD SingHealth’s “Digital Ward—Innovating for the Hospital of the Future” has emerged a winner at the CIO Asia Awards 2008 held on 13 March 2008. Driven by SingHealth’s IT Department, the Digital Ward concept aims to transform the way our healthcare professionals capture and access clinical information, achieving the vision of a Digital Hospital. Digital Ward encompasses several technology-driven point-of-care innovations such as COWS (Computer-On-Wheels), MERC (Mobile Electronic X-Ray Computer), PBT (Patient Bedside Terminal—see page 21), MCA (Mobile Clinical Assistant) and VEGA (wireless temperature and vital signs monitoring). These innovations enable greater work efficiency and improve patient care. This is the third time that SingHealth has clinched the CIO Asia Awards. Our earlier wins were in 2004 for “Electronic Medical Records and SARS Emergency Management” and 2006 for “Enabling seamless, reliable, 24x7 access to Electronic Medical Records and Digital X-Ray images through Virtualised Tiered Storage”.

FCO FOR SINGHEALTH STAFF AT DUKE-NUS GMS With an increasing number of staff taking on adjunct and regular rank appointments at Duke-NUS GMS, SingHealth has established a Faculty Coordinating Office (FCO), which will serve as a single point of contact for all SingHealth staff dealing with Duke-NUS GMS and the institutions’ Human Resource and Finance Departments, to ensure administrative and operational efficiency. Dr Jeremy Lim, Director of SingHealth’s Department of Policy and Research, is heading the FCO. If you are interested in becoming involved with Duke-NUS GMS, please discuss opportunities with your HOD and contact the FCO—Dr Jeremy Lim via email (jeremy.lim.f.y@singhealth.com.sg) or phone (6323 8200).

New Ward For Elderly CGH unveiled a new geriatric ward, Ward 59, at St. Andrew’s Community Hospital on 5 November 2007. This is in line with the Ministry of Health’s call for acute-care hospitals to work with their respective community hospitals to increase acute-care bed counts to meet the growing needs of elderly patients. Connected to CGH by a covered link bridge, Ward 59 is located on level nine and has 16 male and female beds each, and one isolation bed.

KK Women’s And Children’s Hospital (KKH) Tee-Off For Tiny Tots The 2nd Kidz Horizon Appeal Golf Charity Tournament saw guest of honour Mdm Cynthia Phua, Member of Parliament, Aljunied GRC, teeing off at the Singapore Island Country Club. Held on 18 January 2008, the tournament was followed by a dinner cum charity auction, graced by Dr Lam Pin Min, Member of Parliament, Ang Mo Kio GRC. Over $350,000 was raised, with proceeds going to the KKH Health Endowment Fund to help children with HIV and cancer, as well as KKH’s Play Therapy Programme. The charity event was organised in association with Prestige magazine and supported by ICAP AP (Singapore) and Red Dot Traffic.

Smile Again With Less Pain We Are F1 Medics SingHealth is proud to be appointed as overall medical support team for the inaugural Formula 1 Singapore Grand Prix, to be held from 26-28 September 2008. Race organisers have also selected Dr Kelvin Chew, Consultant Sports Physician, CGH, as the Assistant Chief Medical Officer for the event. He will understudy the present Chief Medical Officer, Australian Dr Carl Le, with a view to assume the role in two years’ time. Prof Tan Ser Kiat, SingHealth GCEO, called upon all staff to lend their vital support in making this event a success: “It is critical to put together medical teams for the on-site Track Medical Centre as well as ensure peak readiness for SGH, the lead hospital designated to receive all race casualties, if any.” These teams will be trained by the official Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (F1 parent organisation) in extrication techniques and other necessary medical support requirements. To oversee these efforts, a SingHealth working group has been set up, led by Prof Tay Boon Keng, CMB International, and assisted by Dr Alexander Chung, Director of Trauma Services, SGH and Dr Jeremy Lim, Director of Policy and Research, SingHealth.

Southeast Asia’s first Pain Management Centre for Women and Children has opened its doors at KKH. It aims to bring relief to patients with chronic pain and help them restore their quality of life. The centre uses a soft laser, the first of its kind in Singapore, to treat a wide range of pain, such as cancer pain, endometriosis, back pain, joint pains, migraines and menopausal pains. Due to its non-surgical nature, pain management is often described as an alternative form of treatment to normal surgery. The risk of failure and complications for such procedures are much lower compared to open surgery. Success rate for full recovery from a condition is generally 70 per cent.

Singapore General Hospital (SGH) Dealing With Pain The official opening of SGH Pain Management Centre, on 18 January 2008, signals the first and largest referral centre in Singapore for patients with chronic, disabling pain disorders. A one-stop centre with specialist outpatient clinics, acupuncture services, procedure room with X-ray facilities and recovery room for interventional pain treatment, it provides multidisciplinary and individualised care for hospitalised and ambulatory patients in pain.

Wise Up To A Better Life SGH LIFE Centre (Lifestyle Improvement & Fitness Enhancement) helps its patients make wise lifestyle choices by empowering them to manage their conditions and maintain healthy living. Managed by a multi-disciplinary team of medical doctors, dieticians, physiotherapists, psychologists, occupational therapists and medical social workers, this one-stop hospital-based centre specialises in healthy lifestyle practices, interventions and behavioural modifications, and provides integrated and holistic care for patients with lifestyle-related medical conditions, in particular, eating disorders and obesity.

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Changi General Hospital (CGH)

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National Cancer Centre Singapore (NCCS)

Culture of Giving A culture of giving is growing in NCCS. As part of a fund-raising campaign for the NCC Research Fund (NCCRF), administered by the NCC Foundation, staff are encouraged to volunteer in events and pledge or donate on a regular basis to the Fund. NCCRF provides seeding and bridging funds for an array of translational and clinical research programmes. Seeding funds provide essential support for emerging research work and bridging funds ensure momentum in research productivity. Last December, NCCRF was the adopted charity in a dance benefit by the Sylvia McCully School of Dancing, titled “Circle of Life”. Besides fundraising over two evenings, the event had catalysed public awareness on the need to support cancer research in Singapore.

National Dental Centre Singapore (NDC) Dental Officers Appreciated As a show of appreciation, more than 40 Dental Officers (DO) from NDC, the School Dental Service and SAF Dental Clinics were treated to a dinner at CHIJMES’ Bobby’s Grill on 25 January 2008. Graced by Executive Director of NDC Dr Kwa Chong Teck, it provided an excellent opportunity for DOs to interact with their peers, supervisors and other support staff in a casual setting over great food. Dr Bien Lai, who was especially grateful, said “This event allowed me to catch up with my peers who are posted to different clinic sites, and it also creates a sense of belonging to NDC.”

National Heart Centre Singapore (NHC)

National Neuroscience Institute (NNI)

Heartbeat of Singapore The 17th Singapore LIVE course was held from 5 to 9 March 2008. It kicked off with Asia’s first ever two-day Cardiac Morphology Course, a joint collaboration with the Royal Brompton Hospital, UK. Dr Yen Ho, a top cardiac morphologist, also gave an exceptional illustration of the structural and functional relationship of the heart using high quality videos and images of rare heart specimens. For the main programme, Dr Spencer King III, from Fuqua Heart Center, Georgia, USA delivered the keynote lecture “Courage or Discourage: State of the Art PCI in Stable IHD”. Live transmissions were beamed from several overseas sites including, Harapan Kita, Indonesia; Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong, SAR; and Wockhardt Hospital & Heart Institute, Bangalore, India.

Water world For Needy Tying in with NHC’s 10th Anniversary Celebrations, the centre’s Medical Social Services organised a charity event called ‘Hearty Marine’’ at Sentosa on 15 March 2008. Proceeds from the event went to 32 families of NHC’s needy cardiac patients who received assistance from Medifund/Hospital Fund for medical bills incurred at NHC. They visited Sentosa’s main attractions including Underwater World and Dolphin Lagoon, and the children enjoyed fun educational workshops to learn about marine life.

Caring for PD Patients The Community Care Partners Programme (CCPP) for Parkinson’s Disease (PD)—an NNI initiative and Singapore’s first organised outreach programme for the Parkinson’s community—was launched on 20 October 2007. It provides specialist training for healthcare workers who are managing patients with PD and serves as a crucial link between NNI and this community. NNI also presented a Certificate of Participation to its Community Care Partners* at the launch ceremony. Partners and their staff also attended their first training session at the 6th International Symposium of the Asian & Pacific Parkinsons Association last year. (*Partners are Ang Mo Kio-Thye Hua Kwan Hospital, Geylang Senior Citizens’ Health Care Centre Ltd, Henderson Senior Citizens’ Home, Moral Therapy Hub, Society For The Physically Disabled, St Luke’s Hospital and Tsao Foundation.)

SNEC Turns 18 SNEC celebrated her birthday with an 18th Anniversary Scientific Meeting held on 14-17 March 2008. The theme was “The Practical Ophthalmologist’” and it challenged the SNEC team to come up with a comprehensive range of teaching courses that will enhance patients’ lives. The meeting showcased the latest in 3-Dimension, High-Definition (3D-HD) live surgery, state of the art symposia, award-winning videos, prize-winning photographic exhibition, dedicated nursing programme and a hands-on anterior and posterior segment imaging course.

SingHealth Polyclinics (SHP) New Home for SHP-Queenstown As of 18 December 2007, SHPQueenstown has relocated to its new premises at 580 Stirling Road, Singapore 148958.

Industry News In Brief Salary, Property Determine What You Pay Means Testing (MT) for admissions to subsidised wards will look at monthly salaries for the employed and property values for retirees. When MT starts next January in all public hospitals, 60 per cent of workers—those earning $3,200 or less each month—will get full subsidy, as will those with no income, HDB dwellers and properties with annual values of $11,000 or less. Those earning $5,201 and more will continue to enjoy substantial subsidies of 65 per cent in a C-class ward and 50 per cent in a B2-class ward. Subsidies for Permanent Residents are 10 percentage points lower than for citizens. Appeals will be considered. MT is needed to ensure that all workers can afford medical services—to keep the standard of Class C and B2 wards at a high level and to meet higher expectations of lowincome Singaporeans come year 2020. For more information, go to www.moh.gov.sg.

Safety First Gifts of Love for Brain Damage Research Endowment Fund Talented potters, Mrs Mavis Oei, Chairman of the Goodwood Park Hotel Group and Ms Jaqueline Low, Pottery Teacher came together with a group of friends to produce 200 pottery pieces for Gifts of Love, a pottery exhibition-sale organised in December 2007 to raise funds for the NNI Brain Damage Research Endowment Fund. This fund will enable research in the areas of trauma of the nervous system and the design of novel neuro-rehabilitative regimens for brain damage survivors. A/Prof Lee Wei Ling, Director of the NNI specially commissioned two glazed plates, titled “A glance is worth a thousand kisses”, as a moving tribute to the love and support that her parents have given to each other in the course of their marriage.

As of April 2008, a new and improved Workplace Safety and Health Council (WSHAC) was formed, a step up from the current WSHAC of 2005. The WSH Act will also be expanded to cover six new sectors: logistics, landscape care, hotel, food and beverage,and healthcare industries. The aim is to cultivate sound and healthy safety habits of all individuals at the workplace—from top management to workers.

Recruitment Drive SingHealth, NHG and MOH are combining resources in the annual nation-wide publicity campaign to promote nursing and allied health professions as a career. The main objective is to raise awareness and encourage a higher enrolment within our healthcare institutions, through advertising, exhibitions, career talks targeting youths entering polytechnics and university, midcareer change professionals and decision makers such as parents and teachers. More information can be found at www.healthcareers.sg.

me+GROUP

Singapore National Eye Centre (SNEC)

me+HIGHLIGHTS 12

me+SH keeps you updated and in the know with a timeline of eventsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;your very own front-row seats to the latest happenings!

What:

2nd International Conference of the Asia Pacific Society for Healthcare Quality 2008

Where: Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel When:

17-19 January 2008

What:

6th Annual SingHealth Quality Convention

Where: Grand Copthorne Waterfront Hotel When: 19 January 2008 2

me+HIGHLIGHTS

1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

A/Prof Tay Eng Hseon, CMB of KKH Dr Daphne Khoo, Director of Quality Management at SingHealth Debate Proposition Team Debate Opposition Team Quality stars at the convention

me+HIGHLIGHTS

What:

Allied Health Day

Where: KKH When: 7 March 2008 2

14 3

1. 2. 3. 4.

What:

Saying Thank You, and Farewell.

Where: Housemen Canteen at Outram Campus When: 14 – 23 February 2008 We bid farewell to the Housemen canteen, which will make way for the new SGH Pathology Building.

KKH Allied Health Day—A colourful display where everyone gamely put on a piece of headgear coinciding with the theme of ‘Accessorize your Head with groovy gear and look Stylish!’ A musical performance by staff from the Pharmacy Department got the audience geared up for the rest of the evening. The Rehabilitation Department put up a lively song item from a patients’ point of view incorporating the work that the various therapists are involved in. The item by the Laboratory Department—An upbeat ‘Fashion Show’ to relate their work in the lab illustrated by decorations on their lab coats was well received.

GCEO and Clinical Heads Chinese New Year Party

Celebrity Chefs Cook-Off Our clinician leaders show off their specialities beyond the clinic!

Where: Healing Garden, Bowyer Block When: 20 February 2008 1 1. 2. 3. 4. 5.

Chef Tan Ser Kiat SK Grilled Salmon Special Chef Ng Han Seong Signature Vinegar Pig’s Trotters Chef Low Cheng Ooi Teochew Steamed Fish Chef Kwa Chong Teck Nigella “Lip-Smacking” Lawson Surprise Chef London Lucien Ooi Cold Seafood “Italiano” Pasta

What:

NNI Dinner & Dance 2007

Where: Grassroot Club When:

What:

Celebrate Chinese New Year with SingHealth Nurse Volunteers

Where: Kreta Ayer Community Centre When:

me+HIGHLIGHTS

What:

13 February 2008

Dr Ramani taki the Mr Bolly ng part in Hai contes t

ompetition

NNI Idol C

1 December 2007

me+FOCUS 16

The True Meaning

of Healthcare

ven as he lay there with his eyes closed, one could tell that he was in great pain. He had come out of anaesthesia from a major soft tissue resection operation on his left lower limb to remove a malignant fibro-histiocytoma. It was a very aggressive tumour of the soft tissue. Though obviously in agony, he remained relatively silent. Anxious relatives, his wife and two children were by his bedside holding his hands. An attentive nurse passing by noted this and immediately called the doctor on duty to attend to him. Minutes ticked by and eventually a young house-officer came. The pain was quickly treated and abated. The surgery was a success by any medical or technical measure. The malignant tumour had been adequately excised by a clear margin and the large tissue defect reconstructed with a composite vascularised fibula graft. As a surgeon, I was very pleased with the outcome. He would have a very high probability

of a ‘cure’ after post-operative adjuvant chemotherapy. When I saw him during my postop evening rounds, I explained the surgical details and probable outcome to him and his wife. My optimism was met with only a faint smile of acknowledgment from him and a worried and teary look from his wife. Over the next few days, his recovery went according to plan. He was scheduled for discharge soon but his mood seemed to have worsened a little. I was puzzled but gave it little thought. Follow Up It was only during the next few followup visits at the Specialist Outpatient Clinic that things became clearer. As a young surgeon then, I didn’t understand the complex background of a patient’s fears, anxieties and worries—I was only concerned about treating and attempting to cure the disease. Little did I realise that aside from his concerns about his cancer, he was deeply worried about his family, his ability to continue to support them and the future of his two children. On one hand, due to the extensive surgery and reconstructive procedures, his post-operative recovery would be prolonged and he knew that he would probably lose his job. On the other hand, his own family members were worried about his long-

SingHealth’s GCEO Prof Tan Ser Kiat shares with us his personal heartwarming experience on what healthcare should be.

term survival and his post-surgical well-being. Could he ever live a normal life again? It was hard for the family to understand such technical jargon of ‘cures’, a five-year survival rate, risk of recurrence and so on. Through a long process of explaining in layman’s terms, counseling and reassurances, both he and his family eventually found comfort and trust in us. Our team also had to reach out to his employer to seek their reassurance about the security of his employment. Cancer support groups and friends were mobilised to provide moral and spiritual support. A year after the surgery, I was glad that he emerged stronger, confident and tumour-free. Although he walks with a permanent limp, he has returned to his original job. His son did very well in the PSLE and has been admitted to a premier secondary school. The father beams with pride whenever he talks about it. Providing Quality Care Providing care to a seriously ill patient is not just about treating the disease. There are emotional, psychological and mental upheavals that accompany the condition as a result of worry for the patient’s loved ones as well as failure to understand the disease which in turn leads to fear. Family members are also more concerned about the well-being of the patient.

is not just about treating the disease.

me+FOCUS

Providing care to a seriously ill patient

Technical proficiency and professional competence are a given in any creditable institution. As healthcare professionals, our responsibility is to ensure that we not only treat the illness, but also provide the spectrum of support to deal with the accompanying upheavals affecting the patient. We do this through understanding each patient’s individual background, their mental makeup, their families, and their specific post-treatment requirements. Communication, or the lack thereof, is important in determining the final overall outcome. More often than not, a breakdown in communication is responsible for many unhappy patients. Our ability to accurately convey the intended message is crucial. Empathy and Compassion The terms ‘empathy’ and ‘compassion’ are often used loosely without deep understanding of what they mean to the patient. In order to provide the empathetic and compassionate support they need, we should better understand patients’ feelings in regards to the nature of their illnesses as well as the impact these conditions have on their lives and their families. This in turn must be translated into care and concern that are perceived as genuine and heartfelt.

Our ability to mobilise external agencies and groups to provide help and encouragement is also an important part in the overall care of patients. As illustrated above, employers’ support, such as job reassurances and financial security, is important. Voluntary groups like the Breast Cancer Foundation and Burns Support Group can put patients in touch with people who have undergone similar difficult journeys. Spiritual support is especially important for those nearing the end of their lives. True Courage and True Healthcare I remember a middle-aged lady who was admitted for advanced breast cancer with multiple metastases to her spine and pelvis some 20 years ago. She was not very well-educated and came from a rather humble family background. However, she was a very courageous lady. Although she didn’t quite understand the nature of her cancer, she took the rigours of palliative surgery with great calm and dignity. She always had a smile and a good word for her doctors, nurses and physiotherapists. Towards her final days, the team had difficulty conveying to her the futility of further treatment but she took this in her stride. All we could do was try our best to keep her pain-free and comfortable. She

eventually died a dignified death, with her pastor and members from her church providing spiritual support. It was only later that we learnt from her sister that she had placed great trust and faith in the ability of our team to care for her. She knew that her end was near but she never lost faith in our decisions on what was best for her. Some of my nursing colleagues were almost moved to tears on learning this. True healthcare is a service that can only be provided by professionals who have that sense of calling— people who have that special ability to heal the body, comfort the mind and soothe the soul. Medical, nursing, allied health professionals and other support groups are such people who possess these skills. They must be honed and sharpened with each passing year of experience as they deal with the trials and tragedies afflicted by illnesses coupled with the joy and happiness of recovery. Medical science has and will continue to progress rapidly to solve some of life’s difficult problems and complex diseases, but there is a limit to what science can do. We will do well to remember that, as members of the healing profession,

We cure Sometimes, We relieve Often, We comfort Always.

me+FOCUS

Virtual World For Healthcare

Professionals

Revolutionary advances in Internet technology and software have led to websites that enable healthcare professionals to access vital information and interact more easily. me+SH weighs the pros and cons brought about by cyberspace’s new tools.

Virtual World = Real Solutions? A growing number of patients surf the Internet for medical advice and contribute their medical knowledge online. Therefore it is crucial for healthcare professionals to stay ahead by tapping into online communities which share proprietary and expert knowledge. How do healthcare professionals get hold of the most up-to-date information? What platforms are there for interaction to take place across disciplines? The answer can be found in the form of online forums, blogs, wikis and social networking websites which provide healthcare professionals access to central repositories of knowledge and opportunities to interact with virtual communities that are focused on the industry. Here’s a closer look at some of these cybercities.

The function of forums An example of a forum created exclusively for doctors is Sermo (www. sermo.com). It allows them to get information easily and quickly over the Internet by networking among peers. Being in a secure virtual environment allows doctors to exchange clinical insights, observations and review cases. Forums like WebMD (www.webmd. com) also provide the public with the latest news via articles written and edited by experts. They often host functions like blogs, message boards and web videos. Generally, participants experience many simultaneous connections and then branch off to form smaller groups that lead to further discussions.

The basis for blogs Blog is short for “Web log”. Often described as an online journal or diary, they are websites that contain opinions and observations of the owner or “blogger”. Running A Hospital (www. runningahospital.blogspot.com), started by Paul Levy, CEO of a large Boston hospital, contains posts with engaging titles like e-patient online and informative links like Annie Zeiger’s

The work of wikis Wikis are websites that contain an assortment of forum and discussion pages. Participants, also known as “editors”, are given user pages to describe their personal interests. Wikis are popular because they allow a community to collaboratively edit webpages, creating a heightened sense of ownership and efficacy among the editors. The SingHealth Network, (http:// singhealthnetwork-public.wetpaint. com) is a pilot group set up to test the feasibility of wiki groups within SingHealth. Staff can email the site creator and moderator (see page 20) to request for an invitation to register as members.

The nature of social networking sites Social networking websites like Facebook (www.facebook.com) are great for larger groups of people looking to share information in a more casual and personal setting. Here, each account holder is an independent entity, yet a node in his own network of friends. He can keep growing his own network or take part in larger networks like a school alumni. People often locate long-lost friends and re-kindle old ties through Facebook. Discussions thrive in such sites, thanks to features that mimic everyday social interactions. These virtual ‘actions’ allow members to email one another, present gifts to each other and even poke fun at friends.

The Good And The Bad Of Online Communities Despite the advantages brought about by easily and freely available information, there remain valid concerns about the quality and reliability of web content. Presuming that good quality web content is possible only with a large pool of writers who contribute regularly enough to even out the odds of inaccuracy; one can conclude that it is highly difficult to discern the validity and accuracy of content in any particular website. The saving grace comes in the form of foundations like Health On the Net (www.hon.ch) that guide both healthcare professionals and consumers to websites that give sound and reliable medical information. Another concern revolves around the informal nature of online communities. In truth, casual relationships are good

conduits of information and make effective tools for productive work. In online communities where the main aim is to accomplish work tasks, they merely need to focus their discussions around key topics and assign experienced leaders or moderators. Therefore the advantages of using online communities are obvious in healthcare: With efficient exchange of information, there is closer collaboration; this in turn paves the way for evidence-based knowledge and clinical best practices to develop. On the whole, when used correctly, the virtual world provides healthcare professionals with new and effective tools like forums, blogs, wikis and social networking websites to enhance knowledge and ultimately lead to clinical practice and service delivery.

Harnessing The Best Of Virtuality Apply these ‘Five Rs’ to harness the best of the virtual world as well as everyday living. • Read up and respond to topics that interest you. It’s quite similar to striking up a conversation. • Regularly contribute in whatever way you can. Share your expert advice, opinions, resources and inspirations. This gives you greater visibility in the community and a sense of ownership. Even your questions and doubts are of value because they spark off discussion and learning, • Respect. Be sincere and do not write something on the web that you would not say to a person when face to face. Do not inadvertently defame another person. • Recognise safety issues. Get to know people, but bear in mind that there is no way to understand the motives of everyone in any community, on-line or otherwise. So protect your personal particulars. • Reliable information is valued. If unsure, just say so.

me+FOCUS

FierceHealthcare. Such blogs are popular with readers who get to leave comments on the blogger’s posts. Nursing—The Heart of Healthcare (www.nursesblog.sg) is an MOH initiative to reach out to students who are interested in nursing as a profession. Four nurses, with adorable avatars, give insights to life as nurses blogging about their highs and lows. (See Virtual World Voyages on page 20.)

me+FOCUS 20

Meet two virtual personalities who set sail to harness the potential of their virtual worlds, and learn tips on how to ride the virtual tide safely while surfing the Net.

irtual World Voyages

Online Lifelines For Staff Here are some guidelines to bear in mind while on the Internet. Remember to:

• Protect our patients’ privacy and identity

Above: Pauline at her first scrub-in Left: Wah Yuen—The Wiki Enthusiast

Lau Wah Yuen, Senior Manager of Talent Development, SingHealth created the SingHealth Network Community in November 2007 to test the feasibility of creating a social network within SingHealth. “A wiki allows anyone to contribute with the least hassle,” he explains, when asked why he chose the Wetpaint wiki platform. Wah Yuen spends an average of half an hour each day moderating the site, and finds the wiki platform effective for both social and professional networking. “My school alumni uses a similar virtual network. We have found long lost friends using it. Some have even found jobs,” he says. “Organisations are using it to create a learning- and knowledgesharing culture.” Visit http://singhealthnetworkpublic.wetpaint.com or email lau.wah.yuen@singhealth.com.sg to request for an invitation.

Pauline Leong, Operating Theatre Nurse Clinician, SGH, blogs on Nursing—The Heart of Healthcare, an MOH intitiative to educate the public about nursing as a profession. “This is my first time blogging and I’m enjoying every minute of it,” quips Pauline. Her interests span a wide range of topics and she enjoys the virtual interaction. “It’s fun to be able to sit in one spot yet experience a whole world of information. It’s about the sharing of lives with people,” says Pauline on her online explorations. Visit www.nursesblog.sg to read about an encouraging encounter, a medical mission trip to Indonesia and her myriad of experiences as a scrub nurse.

- Do not reveal any matters relating to patients unless explicit written consent has been given. - Do not upload or share images, photographs or videos of patients or work processes.

• Present positions and viewpoints accurately - Do use discretion when contributing online, especially on matters that are confidential and sensitive (eg. proprietary information). - Be mindful that information available on the World Wide Web whether in blogs, wikis, forums, chat rooms or social networking sites, can be quoted and used in other channels. - Discern where someone is coming from when he asks you for an opinion. Craft your response accordingly. - Direct journalists or other media representatives to your Corporate Communications Department for information on your institutions or the SingHealth group.

Venture into the world of IT gadgets, and see how they help improve efficiency around the workplace. by Grace Ng, SingHealth InfoTech

Smart Bed

Wireless On The Go

Imagine being able to retrieve patient medical information and access the Internet and the outside world from your hospital bed! Now with the Patient Bedside Terminal (PBT)—a 17-inch touchscreen integrated infotainment and edutainment system—clinicians, nurses and patients have convenience and innovation at their fingertips! Patients can speak to nurses on duty via the terminals’ built-in webcam and attached handset. As a trial, eight private ‘A’ class wards in SGH have been equipped with this first-of-itskind PBT along with three mobile versions in a ‘B1’ ward since May 2007. Following that, trials have been conducted in CGH and KKH since November ‘07 and December ‘07 respectively.

The Blackberry has been a common sight within SingHealth institutions for the last two year. As of March 2008, there are more than 180 sets of Blackberry utilised by management staff and Heads of Department. Serving as a “smartphone”, the Blackberry is a one-stop device on which one can access maps, write entries in the organiser, pen emails on Lotus Notes, coordinate meetings with colleagues, insert tasks into the calendar as well as make phone calls. Blackberry sets are increasingly becoming the norm in the workplace because they allow ease of access—quickly—to pertinent information at one’s fingertips. In contrast to some PDA phones that runs on a text-recognition input method which can be clumsy and inaccurate, the Blackberry uses a QWERTY keyboard with trackwheel which allows the users to type and navigate with greater ease and convenience.

Motivation for Innovation The SingHealth Allied Health Innovative Practice Award applauds the spirit of inquiry and creativity of our Allied Health Staff. me+SH speaks with the two winning teams.

team of SHP pharmacists developed the Medication ID Aid (MedIA) which improves the patient-doctor consultation experience and reduces wait time at SHP. The Medication ID Aid is available on our intranet at http://mysinghealth/SHP/ MedicationIDAid/. The KKH team came up with the Child-Friendly Video to Prepare Children for Surgery. The 6-minute animated video is intended for children aged 3 years and above. It lets them know what to expect during hospitalisation as well as pre- and post-surgeries, suggests items to bring and provides coping strategies.

me+SH: What was the motivation behind your winning idea at the Allied Health Innovative Practice Award 2007? Why is innovation important in your line of work?

Doris Teo—Clinic Pharmacy Manager, SHP: Problems on workflow efficiency, patient waiting time and most importantly, patient safety motivated the team to embark on a journey to tackle and resolve these issues. Our well-educated populace expects top quality healthcare. Hence, we constantly seek innovative and creative ways to enhance our services and optimise our processes for our patients. SHP Pharmacy team members: Tan Swee Keng, Pauline Lo Fei Ling, Goh Boon Kwang, Teo Bee Hoon and Lim Ting Nee.

Dr G, the friendly doctor in KKH’s award-winning animated video.

Rachel Woon—Play Therapist, KKH: Our motivation came from a curiosity to do things differently, a desire to maximise benefits and a need to seize opportunities offered by new technology and multi-media to help our patients. Innovation allows us to leverage on new technology to increase value and reduce cost to our patients. KKH Play Therapy team members: Rachel Woon and Satyaki Sengupta.

me+SPOTLIGHT

Gadgets in the Workplace

me+SPOTLIGHT

Hear it from

th e

How does caffeine affect oral health? 22

Dr Nora Heng Registrar, Periodontics Unit, Department of Restorative Dentistry, NDC Caffeinated beverages that contain food dyes and acids can stain teeth. Even small amounts of caffeine can cause calcium loss in teeth over time, eventually leading to tooth decay. Too much of it can result in dry mouth where insufficient saliva is produced. Saliva has antimicrobial and cleansing functions that protect teeth from attack by acid-producing, decaycausing bacteria. Caffeine may also aggravate nocturnal teeth grinding, resulting in cracked teeth, loss of teeth and oral joint problems.

What are the immediate/ long term effects of consuming caffeinated drinks on brain activity?

Ex p er t s

related to a nearly 70-percent reduced risk of the disease. When adjusted for the caffeine level in black tea, the results were almost the same, which may suggest that there’s something in black tea other than caffeine that protects its drinkers.

What are the dietary concerns of consuming caffeinated drinks? Are there any benefits?

Valerie Tan Dietitian, CGH Those keen on losing weight should be wary of the calories contained in caffeinated drinks such as colas and coffee with full cream milk or creamer. Drinking too much caffeine could lead to caffeine dependency and withdrawal symptoms such as irritability, tremors and headaches. As for benefits, caffeine exaggerates the stress response and may improve alertness and speed up reaction times. However, drinking caffeinated drinks should be done in moderation.

Dr Louis Tan Senior Consultant, Department of Neurology, NNI Research and studies have shown that caffeine may improve motor deficits, particularly in Parkinson’s disease (PD). However, a recent study by the NNI and NUS showed for the first time that drinking black tea, but not green tea, reduces the risk of developing PD among the Singaporean Chinese and having an average of one cup of black tea a day was strongly

IT’S GOT KICK! How do you kickstart your day? We seem to have a lovehate relationship with that cup of coffee or tea. There’s a nagging feeling that our often–time favourite beverage is not too good for our system and yet we seem to be unable to live without it. Has coffee become a metaphor for a fast-paced lifestyle?

Hold on a second! Before we drink our next cuppa, let’s hear it from the experts.

and capacity, it may cause the heart to work a little harder which may manifest as a variety of symptoms, particularly in the form of palpitations.

What are the effects of caffeine on the heart?

Dr K Gunasegaran Senior Consultant, Department of Cardiology, NHC Caffeine is a substance that can cause a quickening of the heart rate known as palpitations. If this were to occur in an individual who has poor heart function

Got Caffeine

Is there a link between drinking caffeine and cancer?

Dr Donald Poon Consultant, Medical Oncology, NCCS

So far, no single human study has conclusively linked caffeine intake with an increased risk of any particular type of cancer. Most of the postulations about caffeine and cancer development were formulated in studies using laboratory animals. A recent Nurses Health Study showed that increased caffeine intake may be associated with a reduced risk of ovarian cancer—-an interesting lead for researchers to pursue in discerning possible biological mechanisms.

me+LIVING

My Views

What Type of Coffee Drinker am I?

Think you are the ultimate coffee addict? You’ve got company! me+SH speaks to the coffee addicts—lovers—in our midst.

Katherine Tan

Admin Assistant, KKH Child Development Unit Q: What type of coffee do you usually drink? A: I need one cup a day, in the morning, and I drink only 3-in-1 coffee. That’s because the other types, such as those sold in kopi tiams, gourmet stores, even fast food outlets, give me a headache, just by the smell of it.

Katheryn Maung

Manager, SingHealth Corporate Communications Department Q: We heard you are quite a coffee addict. What will happen to you if all coffee disappear from the face of the earth? A: I prefer to be known as a coffee lover, thank you. On a good day I’ll drink three cups, and five on a bad day. (Is my doctor reading this?) If coffee disappears from the face of the earth, I’ll probably move to Venus.

Vincent Tay

First year graduate student, DukeNUS GMS Q: Are you addicted to coffee? And do you have anything to say to the person who discovered coffee beans? A: I’m a coffee aficionado. I sometimes drink it in the afternoon to counter postprandial somnolence (means feeling sleepy after lunch) and I have five words for the person who discovered coffee: You beat me to it!

Dr Nelson Wee

Medical Officer, SGH Accident & Emergency Department

See how our staff responded to a poll on our portal: If I were a type of coffee, what would I be? French Press - Viva la romantic:

(10.8%)

Dark Roast - Strong and Mysterious:

(31%)

Jamaican Blue Mountain - Lofy visionary:

(12.5)

Latte - Smooth and classy:

(40%)

3-in-1 - Strength in unity:

(5.8%) Total votes: 7515

Q: Why is coffee so important to you? A: Coffee gives me the kick, especially since I’ve to work through the night. Here’s a little-known fact: They usually keep a bottle of coffee beans at all perfume counters... because sniffing the beans actually clears the nasal passage so that one is better able to discern the scent of the next perfume!

You share it, we poll it. Join the fun and look out for more fun polls on http://mysinghealth

me+LIVING

osh ‘n’ etwork

me+SH reviews cool eating places within easy reach of SingHealth institutions—where you can get work done, conduct team-building events or host company functions.

Charming Teahouse Slip out of your shoes and into relaxation as you sip tea in the peaceful confines of a quaint tri-storey shophouse. Tea Chapter is ideal for gatherings of five, 10 and even up to 60, offering private and spacious rooms of various sizes. It is charmingly decorated, and you can take your pick from three distinct cultural decor styles: Chinese, Korean or Japanese. There is also a wide range of tea leaves and finger foods to choose from. Address: 9A/11 Neil Road Tel: 62261175 E-mail: inquiry@tea-chapter.com.sg Website: www.tea-chapter.com.sg Nearest MRT: Outram Park/Tanjong Pagar station Open Daily: 11:00am-11:00pm

Dining In Harmony Chef Hozumi and his Singaporean wife, Sandra, have created a beautiful sanctuary in Wahiro (means “Great Harmony” in Japanese). Simple and elegant interior design is quintessentially Japanese with nuances of Southeast Asian accents. It complements the finely tuned menu which boasts authentic, innovative Japanese cuisine as well as special seasonal kaiseki (traditional multi-course dinner). The tranquil surrounds are conducive for lunch meetings and quiet conversation. Ask for the private room for groups of 12-18 people. Address: 1 Goldhill Plaza, #01-19/21 Tel: 62531692 E-mail: sandra@wahiro.com Website: www.wahiro.com Nearest MRT: Novena station Open Daily:12:00pm-2:00pm (lunch); 6:00pm-10:00pm (dinner)

Geek At-tech! Geek Terminal is a technology-themed cafe-restaurant. With its ultra modern and uber-cool design elements, it could easily pass off as something out of the acclaimed Star Trek movie and television series. The food is delicious with soups and sandwiches simply out of this world. Order a cup of Illy coffee while you access high speed wireless surfing and business centre facilities. Their modular meeting rooms can hold seminars or private functions for 100 pax or more. It makes working breakfasts or lunches so much more fun! Address: 55 Market Street, #01-01 Tel: 65570098 Event bookings: margarett@geekterminal.com Website: www.geekterminal.com Nearest MRT: Raffles Place station Nearest Carpark: Golden Shoe Carpark Open: Weekdays 7:30am-8:00pm (extended operating hours available for private events) & Saturdays 9:00am-6:00pm Close on Sundays and Public Holidays

SPECIAL me+SH Promotion For all SingHealth Staff! April:

• Complimentary coffee:

No questions asked! Just show up with your me+SH card and SingHealth staff card. • Complimentary cake: Bring a friend along, buy a cup of coffee and both of you will get a portion of cake on the house. May-December: • Complimentary slice of cake with every order of two cups of coffee.

or the first time, a true blue American working in Singapore has the privilege of welcoming the new year twice on New Year’s Day and Chinese New Year—this year being the Year of Rat. Living near SingHealth’s Outram Campus in the heart of Chinatown, Patrick S. Gallagher, Policy Analyst at SingHealth, Health Services Research, never knew the extent and symbolism of Chinese New Year until he experienced a flurry of activities and celebrations in early February. me+SH takes a trip to Chinatown with Patrick and they attempt to decipher the many “hidden treasures” of the culture and traditions that come alive during the festive season.

me+LIVING

Gallagher Goes Gong Xi Fa Cai

Chinese New Year lets you celebrate the best of both worlds—the new (what’s ahead) and the old (timehonored traditions). I was impressed with the familial emphasis of the holiday and look forward to more lo hei meals next year.

During the lead up and 15 days of Chinese New Year, I enjoyed watching Chinatown come alive with festive decorations, openair markets, beautiful ornate lanterns, dragon dances and kids with firecrackers. The one thing I could do without was the old lady singing outside my window till 2am every morning!” —Patrick S. Gallagher

CNY 101? We put Patrick to the test.

Why are there sweets sold at every corner?

What do mandarin oranges symbolise?

Patrick Gallagher (PG): That’s obvious. Everyone loves sweets! me+SH: Good guess. It starts the year off on a sweet note. Two thumbs up!

PG: “An apple a day keeps the doctor away”, so “An orange a day keeps the sinseh away.” me+SH: Actually, the words for mandarin orange and gold sound the same in Cantonese -“Kam”.

What are red packets for? PG: The New Year kiss is the focal point of celebrations in the west, so red packets contain breath mints in anticipation of new love in the new year. me+SH: On the contrary, red packets are given by married elders to children or unmarried singles and they are meant to symbolise luck.

Why do people like to wear red during the festive season? PG: For a growing economy. Red is used in abundance to attract a bull run in the financial markets! me+SH: Not bad. Red is for luck, and wearing red attracts good luck and prosperity. You get a point for effort.

Why is the Chinese character fu (‘ upside down?

’)

PG: The Chinese letter for prosperity is hung upside down because when Asia was colonised, an ang mo (westerner) accidentally hung it incorrectly. The tradition took shape as a backhanded insult to the colonisers, though now it’s perpetuated as a reminder of independence and pride in Chinese heritage. me+SH: Convincing but wrong! One point for creativity. The character fu means “luck”. Sticking it upside down symbolises the “pouring out” of good luck. Gallagher gets 3 out of 5 correct! Not bad for a first attempt at decoding Chinese New Year traditions!

me+LIVING 26

Art

Living

Just as a picture paints a thousand words, the home of A/Prof Tay Eng Hseon, CMB of KKH is filled with artwork that embodies the virtues of a dedicated physician.

n intricate batik art piece is displayed prominently above the piano in A/Prof Tay Eng Hseon’s living room. Infused with serene, yet robust hues, this captivating work of art is perhaps the most revealing item in the doctor’s home. Six years ago, A/Prof Tay contributed some of his drawings to help a patient and up-and-coming artist, the late Zee Mei Chuen, fulfill her final wish of holding an art exhibition. That batik piece was one of her works from that joint exhibition entitled My Sanctuary. When asked whether there will be future exhibitions, A/Prof Tay replies: “If there is a reason to or if a patient requires of it.” Such brevity belies his kindness and humility. It is believed that art helps nurture a person’s character, and it was probably through pursuing art that A/Prof Tay first learned the value of hard work. He recalls that as a seven-year-old, he began sketching and drawing under the tutelage of accomplished artist, Liu Kang. It was no easy task to attend art classes from 2pm to 5pm on Sundays. “I hated it. Everyone else was having a good time watching TV at home, while I was trying hard to keep awake,” quips A/Prof Tay candidly. But he persevered and soon progressed to sketching portraits by the time he was 10 years old. Indeed, art has always been part of A/Prof Tay’s life. His father, a commercial artist, ran a business that supplied giant murals to movie theatres, large scale decorations to malls, and props to television broadcasting stations. He reminisces fondly of school holidays spent putting up Christmas decorations along Orchard Road. These days he puts up art work in his office and his home. A Chinese painting featuring two fish graces his office at KKH. “It symbolises the bringing together of women, children and physicians under one roof; a greater harmony among various disciplines as well as a closer collaboration between administrative and medical staff.” While some types of art have profound significance, others are a more direct representation of the doctor’s other pursuits and interests in life. Like the reproduction of Michaelangelo’s famous Renaissance painting, Genesis, hanging dramatically in the Tays’ dining area. It was purchased in Florence, Italy, just one of the

me+LIVING

“Medicine is an art.”

many paintings, sculptures and pottery pieces that the Tays buy as souvenirs during their annual family vacations abroad. Their trips are mostly “free-and-easy” allowing them to experience the culture more intimately. Once, A/Prof Tay was so mesmerised by the Louvre in Paris that he spent two full days there. It is not surprising then that France remains one of his favourite countries. Their next destination? Egypt. Despite their home being an interesting juxtaposition of classic artworks set amidst a contemporary décor, one feels a sense of cool calmness and style along with togetherness, pervading the atmosphere. This is the proud handiwork of A/Prof Tay’s wife, Ivy, who personally designs the rooms, especially the family space, without the aid of interior designers. It is no wonder that the Tays enjoy spending time together at home: Be it in their personal space, where teenaged sons, Keson and Jamos, pursue their interests in music and mathematics respectively, or family space, where father and son bond as they take turns on the treadmill, spurring one another on. When exercising alone, A/Prof Tay tunes into the television to get a dose of his cherished history documentaries. He finds the genre thoroughly engaging. “History personifies human nature. It teaches about human nature and why wars are fought. We can apply these lessons to life.” Books on philosophy also inspire the doctor. He recommends Sun Zi Art of War by Nanyang Technological University Professor Wee Chow Hou. To him, reading about philosophy allows him to gain insight into effective leadership as the topics come full circle. “Artists are philosophers and you need to be a philosopher to be able to accomplish something great,” he opines. “Leaders must hold on to a philosophy that guides the running of an organisation.” Without missing a beat, he adds: ”Medicine is an art.” On the surface, A/Prof Tay may simply give you a list of things he likes to do. But delve deeper, and one will understand his philosophies in life as well as in the practice of medicine. In so doing, discover a leader with vision and passion, and above all a physician with compassion.

TAY TRIVIA • Most Watched Movie: Gladiator (20 times.) • Most Memorable Line in Movie: “When death smiles at you, the only thing you can do is smile back.” —Gladiator • Fave Mafia Movie: The Godfather (for great plot) • Fave War Movie: Battle of Midway (for great strategy) • Fave TV Genre: Horrors, eg The Haunting

me+LIVING

Come Travel with Me

Glance on a Sacred Place— 28

The capital city of Myanmar abounds in colossal, glittering pagodas, but none as magnificent and symbolic as the Shwedagon. By Ma Yi Mon Soe, Staff Nurse, SGH

Above: My mother (centre) and me (left) blessing the corner signified by the day on which we are born. We were both born on a Wednesday, and the animal associated with Wednesday is the elephant. Top right: Yi Mon (Centre) in front of the Shwedagon Pagoda.

t is not every day that one gets to write about one’s country so when me+SH gave me this opportunity, I felt honoured and was more than happy to accept. I truly find Myanmar to be Southeast Asia’s best kept secret. I’ll write about one place that is very dear and memorable to me and I am sure, to many fellow Myanmars. It is the Shwedagon Pagoda. First, let me tell you about Yangon, my home. The name Yangon means ‘end of strife’. It is the former capital of Myanmar, founded by King Alaungpaya in 1755. Visitors to Yangon MUST see the great Shwedagon Pagoda. It is quite hard to explain how spectacular it is. Even nonBuddhists will be mesmerised. It is so peaceful and quiet there especially in the late evenings. One tends to forget that they are in the heart of a bustling city. I remember when my brothers and I used to run around the big pagoda when we were little. Even now, I still feel a sense of tranquility wash over me every time I think about the Pagoda. The Shwedagon Pagoda is truly a work of art in expressing the devotion of the religion. One can find many traditional Myanmar paintings and sculptures within. These works of art depict scenes of Buddha’s life. I recall some of these stories back in my childhood days when my mother would regale me with stories of the life of Buddha by looking at the old paintings along the stairs leading to the great Pagoda. I didn’t realise then, that the principles of Buddha’s teachings would be instilled in my young mind. The Shwedagon remains very much an integral part of our life. Dating and married couples will make offerings of flowers and candles and vow to overcome any future challenges. We believe that we meet and love in this life because of the good deeds we did together in our past lives. Our bond of love is renewed, strengthened and blessed by Buddha’s teachings. To show how much the Shwedagon Pagoda means to the Myanmar people, I share with you a quote by my favourite author, Khin Myo Chit: “As children, pagodas offer us recreation as well as education; as youths the sylvan fields of romance and poetry; in our years of maturity they give us relaxation and a sense of security and refuge; in our old age, solace and comfort.”

Alphabet Soup?

Food Delight

—Great Dining Outlets for You and Your Children

A Whole World of FUN!

or six-year-old Joan and her younger sister, Yvonne, 2, going to Globetrotters Family Restaurant is a family treat. Their mum, Chan Chin Fern, Senior Executive, Department of Nursing, NCCS, likes the cheerful atmosphere, affordable menu and attentive and friendly staff. The restaurant is designed with child safety in mind and equipped with a supervised play area.

Fitness For All Ages Core strength training works both the lower back and abdominal muscles in unison. It develops functional fitness which is essential for both daily living and regular activities.

Globetrotters Family Restaurant United Square, #02-02, 101 Thomson Road Tel: 63565285 (reservations) Open: 8:00am-10:00pm (weekdays) 9:00am-10:00pm (weekends) Website: www.globetrotters.com.sg

Great World City’s basement food court is a feast for the senses. Ample space, bright sunny hues, sleek and stylish tables with matching benches and a variety of cuisines for everyone in the family. The giant alphabetshaped cushion seats at the entrance are especially a hit with the kids!

Great World City Food Junction (Basement 1) 1, Kim Seng Promenade, #B1-16/17 Tel: 67362030 (no reservations required) Open: 10:00am-10:00pm (daily) Free shuttle services available from Great World City to Marriott Hotel & Orchard Boulevard, to Chinatown MRT (Upper Cross Street) and to City Hall MRT (next to St. Andrew’s Cathedral). For more details, call 67362030.

Firm Up Your Core

enefits of Core strength training include greater efficiency of movement, increased power output, reduces back problems by lessening uneven strain on the spine, and, improved body control, balance, stability and athletic performance. Eric Ho, Senior Therapist, at SGH LIFE Centre, teaches core strength training to get you energised and ready for daily tasks and more demanding challenges. These simple exercises can be done at home.

1) Bridging: 1 Lie on a firm surface facing up with both knees bent at about 90 degrees, hands by your sides. 2 Contract core muscles by gently pulling the navel downwards towards the spine and flattening your lower back—DO NOT HOLD YOUR BREATH. 3 Lift hips up till they align with chest and knees; contract core muscles at all times. 4 Hold for 5 seconds, then return to starting position slowly. 5 Repeat (10-15 repetitions for each leg). 6 Increase level of difficulty by lifting one foot off the surface while hips are in the air.

2) Quadruped: 1 Start on all fours with hands positioned under shoulders (shoulder-width apart) and knees under hips (knees shoulderwidth apart) 2 Ensure back is flat and not curved upwards or downwards. Look straight ahead. 3 Contract core muscles by gently pulling the navel into the abdomen, towards the spine—DO NOT HOLD YOUR BREATH. 4 Straighten one leg slowly until it’s align with neck, back, hips. Don’t rotate trunk. 5 Hold position for 5 seconds, then return to starting position slowly. 6 Repeat with opposite leg. (10-15 repetitions for each leg). 7 Increase level of difficulty by lifting opposite hand simultaneously.

(Note: these exercises are not suitable for those with acute low back pain. Consult a physiotherapist before doing these exercises.)

me+LIVING

What’s Cooking...

me+SMILES

The

Lighter Side You Told Her What? A woman went to her doctor’s office where she was seen by one of the new doctors. After about 4 minutes in the examination room, she burst out, screaming as she ran down the hall. An older doctor stopped her and asked what the problem was, and she told him her story. After listening, he sat her down in another room and told her to relax. The older doctor then marched down the hallway to where the first doctor was and demanded, “What’s the matter with you? Mrs Tan is 63 years old. She has four grown children and seven grandchildren, and you told her she is pregnant?” The new doctor calmly continued to write on his clipboard and without looking up said, “Does she still have the hiccups?” Overheard in the Emergency Room My name is Janet. I’m 5 feet 3 inches tall and pleasingly plump. After I had a minor accident, my mother accompanied me to the emergency room. The ER nurse asked for my height and weight, and I blurted out, “5 foot 8, 125 pounds.” While the nurse pondered over this information, my mother leaned over to me. “Sweetheart,” she gently chided, “this is not the Internet.”

Want to share a joke or a funny picture or photo? Email us at me.sh@singhealth.com.sg

Value-Added Service

Well, Mr Tan, as part of your having opted for the “full package”, besides operating on your hernia, we also removed your appendix, gall bladder, wisdom teeth and one ingrown toenail. Artist: Dr Andrew B.G. Tay, NDC

Actual Medical Records These documented statements were actually found on patients’ charts during a recent review of medical records. Fortunately, none of them were SingHealth patients’ charts. • ”The baby was delivered, the cord clamped, cut and handed to the pediatrician who breathed and cried immediately.” • “The patient’s skin was moist and dry.” • “I saw your patient today who is still under our car for physical therapy.”

Seen At... Exuding love, literally. This car was spotted at Carpack C near the Bowyer Block carpark. It belongs to a visitor, whose kids wanted him to put all those hearts on his car.

At the Heart of all We Do.

Stellar qualities “Compliments to a really great member of your staff at SHP-Pasir Ris, Dr Hii Khing Jim. My wife from Japan only recently came to Singapore and has been trying her hardest to adapt to the different culture and weather here. During our clinic visit, Dr Hii set an excellent example of what doctors should be. She is understanding, patient, and most importantly, sincere in her advice and medical care. My wife and I are deeply touched that in today’s modern society, there are still gems like Dr Hii around who bother to make a difference by helping patients feel so comfortable and relaxed. We felt that even the long wait to see her was worthwhile. Please convey our thanks to her.” G L and N K

There are heroes and heroines among us who, through their words or actions—and sometimes, a listening ear—make a difference in the lives of others. me+SH recognises two such heroes.

31 A Listening Ear “We would like to express our appreciation to Dr Loh Seong Feei and his IVF team at Reproductive Medicine Unit, KKH for the excellent service and professional cares rendered to me. Even though we are still not successful conceiving after two cycles of IVF treatment over the past two years, Dr Loh still encouraged us to continue treatment. During my visits to Dr Loh, he has always been patiently listening to my experiences of any discomfort and symptoms. He gave good advice and encouraged us, which helped to relieve our worries. Thanks again, Dr Loh and the IVF team, for your cares and professional treatment.” Excerpt from a compliment written by a grateful patient

me @ SingHealth Making

A Difference Yvonne Goh, who has been with SingHealth’s Facilities Development Department since 2000, describes her job with enthusiasm: “My team believes in me, has faith that I can produce results and people see value in the work I do.” The Assistant Operations Manager finds work meaningful because she helps ensure that her office runs well so that her colleagues can carry out their duties smoothly. To better understand the role of Yvonne’s department, here’s one good example that people usually take for granted. “When it rains heavily and you’re on

me+SMILES

Patients.

the Campus walking dry under the sheltered paths, remember us.” Getting good feedback helps keep Yvonne motivated at work. She also maintains a positive attitude and believes in doing her best to serve others. Such enthusiasm led her to win the National Day Award (Efficiency Medal) in 2003. Yvonne has accomplished much and counts her family as one of her greatest achievements. Therefore she appreciates SingHealth’s familyfriendly work environment that she says “allows for good work-life balance.”

top left: Yvonne with husband, Anthony and son, Joshua (11) and daughter, Grace (10)

On the mark, get set, Goh! Yvonne • Holds a black belt in Aikido • Eats potato chips and fast food to recharge • Likes to experiment with new cooking recipes

me+HORIZON

Look back not for nostalgia’s sake but in pride and appreciation of the achievements and breakthroughs witnessed by the SingHealth family and the medical community at large.

This Quarter

In History

Snapshots—Past And Present

In recent years... 1 April 2000 10 June 2004

Inauguration of SingHealth Official opening of NeuroVision Centre at SNEC—World’s first non-surgical interactive computer-aided vision treatment.

From not too long ago... May 1999 June 1957

A peek at human ingenuity... 1963

Paul Winchell receives patent for artificial heart. The first patented artificial heart was invented by Paul Winchell, who was in fact a ventriloquist and much-loved voice and television series character actor. He designed and built a prototype artificial heart with the help of Dr Henry Heimlich. Winchell filed for a patent in 1956 and received one in 1963. He subsequently donated the patent to the University of Utah where Robert Jarvik devised the Jarvik-7—a total artificial heart designed to function like the natural heart.

1784

Benjamin Franklin invents the first bifocals. American scientist Franklin, who suffered from myopia and presbyopia (longsightedness), invented the bifocals to avoid regular switching between two pairs of glasses. A great number of letters and publications from that time period pertain to Dr Franklin’s double spectacles, including his first reference of them in a letter dated 21 August 1784.

Clinical operations commence in Mistri Wing of the new NHC Building, Outram Campus. Foundation stone is laid for Toa Payoh Hospital for the chronic sick at Thomson Road, which later moved and became Changi General Hospital.

Source: www.wikipedia.com

Coming Up In July

Have a trivia to share? Write in to me.sh@singhealth.com.sg and see your contributions in me+SH.

In your next issue of me+SH, we bring you exciting news and coverage on: • •

Striving for Excellence find out more about the winners of the GCEO Excellence Awards 2008. First Night Formula 1 Race what important and exhilarating role SingHealth plays in our nation’s inaugural car racing event. • High Action everything you need to know about sports and more in Beijing’s Summer Olympics.

Read all about them in me+SH, coming to you in July 2008. We give you the news FIRST-HAND! We bring you a FRONT-ROW perspective! We put you IN-THE-KNOW! Hurry and get your copy of me+SH now!

Your

If you Have read me+SH from cover to cover, find out how you fared!

1. Who did we feature as our International Medical Graduate?

2. As of March 2008, how many Blackberry sets are being used in SingHealth?

Please email your answers to me.sh@singhealth.com.sg Three lucky winners will each receive a Golden Village gift card worth $28. Closing date: 31 May 2008.

Here are the answers to the last C!Section’s quiz: Q1 What is the title of the new nurses’ publication launched at the SingHealth Nursing Conference 2007? Ans: Cultural Journeys: By Nurses For Nurses. Q2

How much did Shaw Foundation donate to set up the “Shaw Foundation Scholars Programme” at Duke-NUS GMS?

Ans: S$5 million.

Who are the organisers of the recent annual American College of Sports Medicine course?

Ans: National Heart Centre Singapore and the American College of Sports Medicine.

And the winner is... Florence Cheang, Linen Supervisor, Environmental Services, KKH

She wins a $50 shopping voucher.

Have an

opinion?

We want to hear from you! C!Section has evolved! Have an opinion about our revamp? Tell us how you feel about me+SH, the magazine for all SingHealth Staff. Are you a wizard at words, do you have a keen eye for capturing images? Then it’s time to unleash the writer or photographer in you! Your contribution may just find its way onto the pages of me+SH. What are you waiting for? Release your inhibitions and let your creativity flow. We have the perfect outlet for you here in me+SH! Send your comments, feedback, story ideas and contributions to me.sh@singhealth.com.sg

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