me+SH (July 2008)

July–September 08

A SingHealth staff magazine

SingHealth Shines Through

With Sportsmanship and Camaraderie

Designed to Perform Blueprint for a Medical City of Excellence

Conversions & Touchdowns!

New Phase in Healthcare, New Faces in Leadership

Features

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Life in the Fast Lane Rev it up!

SingHealth renders vital medical support for Singapore’s first F1™ racing event.

Affordable Healthcare through Strategic Sourcing Revelations about GPO.

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me+SPOTLIGHT

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me+FOCUS

Regulars

Blueprint for a World-Class Medical Hub Roam around our medical city of excellence and get to know its residents.

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01 me+YOU •

Powering up—New leaders in the next phase of medical excellence • Celebrating outstanding people —GCEO Excellence Awards 2008 • Read all about I.T.—Implementation of EMR upgrades • News-in-Brief

03-12

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me+SPOTLIGHT

SingHealth Leaders on the Spirit of Sportsmanship Rallying the team to work together and win!

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me+LIVING

Foreword by A/Prof Hwang Nian Chih, Senior Consultant, NHC Rolling good times with our cover models & contributors

On the red carpet– Fabulous at 40!

GCEO Excellence Awards & Launch of me+SH

13-15

me+HIGHLIGHTS •

Making medicine personal–On cell cycle and personalised medicine

16 me+FOCUS • •

This quarter in history Upcoming events

32 me+HORIZON Medical Excellence, Genuine Care

Lifestyle •

Expert opinion on jogging & its effects on your body • Bond with fellow sports fans over TV

24-25

me+SPOTLIGHT •

Extreme family fun sports • Roller blading team rocks • Healthy snack in five minutes

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

28-29 me+LIVING • •

The Lighter Side Patients. At the Heart of All We Do.

30 me+SMILES Promotions 24 •

20% off selected

brands at Running Lab

Back • Nurses’ Week special Cover at Persimmon

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.

Spirit of SingHealth—it’s all about sportsmanship and camaraderie in this exciting issue. Gear up for an exhilarating read & ride!

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In You

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o become truly skilful at what we do takes practice. It could be a work project or sports activity; you could be part of a team or heading one. Even in a profession like medicine, perfection of skills is best done in an environment where coaching, counselling, feedback and encouragement are available. This is where a mentor comes in handy.

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The concept of mentoring has been around for ages. It traces its origins to ancient Greek history where Odysseus, before leaving for the Trojan Wars, entrusted his son Telemachus to the care and guidance of his close friend, Mentor. Thus the word mentor is associated with one who is a wise and experienced guide, a trusted ally and advocate as well as a caring role model.

Mentoring is still as relevant today as it was centuries ago. Mentors are often more experienced professionals who give their expertise and assistance to less experienced individuals, to help the latter advance careers, enhance education, and build networks.

Ideally, mentoring should also take on a more holistic nature and develop the emotional, social and psychological aspects of the mentee. For this to happen, a stable mentor-mentee relationship based on trust, genuine concern and open communication has to be cultivated.

At SingHealth, we believe in teamwork and the spirit of helping one another. It has been conventional practice that the senior clinician becomes a mentor to his or her junior colleagues. Some may provide guidance in career development while others may help assimilate their protegés into the working environment.

A/Prof Hwang Nian Chih • Senior Consultant Department of Anaesthesia & Surgical Intensive Care, SGH • Acting Head & Senior Consultant Department of Cardiac Anaesthesia, NHC

I am particularly glad that the Ministry of Health has publicly recognised clinician leaders who have significantly contributed to clinical work, research and mentoring of younger clinicians. Professor Soo Khee Chee, the founding Director of the National Cancer Centre Singapore, received the 2008 National Outstanding Clinician Mentor Award; while Professor Donald Tan, currently the Medical Director of Singapore National Eye Centre, received the 2008 National Outstanding Clinician Scientist Award. Both are admirable in their own way and I congratulate them.

Besides highlighting the winners of the inaugural 2008 National Medical Excellence Awards, this issue also features winners of the GCEO Excellence Awards, interviews with the new leaders in SingHealth, and of course, preparation for the inaugural 2008 Formula 1™ SingTel Singapore Grand Prix to be held in September 2008. This will be the first night race and the first street race in Asia.

Singapore General Hospital has been tasked to formulate and execute a medical support plan for the event. A team of clinicians and medical staff has been handpicked from the trauma and critical services to lead this important challenge, and key team members have visited the 2008 Formula 1TM ING Australian Grand Prix to boost their learning experience.

The planning and preparations leading up to the actual event itself provide our staff members yet another platform to demonstrate collaboration, teamwork and leadership, and build camaraderie, all in the name of sportsmanship. Besides being a fantastic learning opportunity for our medical support team, the success of this challenge will augur well for both SingHealth and Singapore.

A/Prof Hwang is a winner at the GCEO Excellence Awards 2008. Read more on pages 4 and 5.

me+YOU

Hear Our Staff

In the spirit of teamwork and sportsmanship, we ask our staff which mascot best represents their team.

Q

If you are the captain of a sports team, what would you choose as your mascot and why?

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Dr Hsu Pon Poh, Senior Consultant, CGH Dolphins. They are smart, fast, team players, familyoriented, kind, friendly and lovely – qualities that healthcare professionals should have towards our work and our patients. Read more about Dr Hsu’s passion for his patients on page 22.

Ms June Lim, Asst Manager, SHS Group Procurement Office The exuberant eagle. An eagle analyses the situation and spots the right opportunity to act. Moreover, it’s real fun to be able to soar in the sky and have a panoramic view of the whole situation before making a rational decision. Read about June and her team’s contribution to the overall procurement function in SingHealth on pages 20-21.

Rolling Good Times 3

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Members of the Roller Blading Team cheer one another on as they move up stage by stage in terms of skills; from one milestone to another in terms of distance. The team presses on until they reach a point of moving continuously and effortlessly in the same direction.

That defines true sportsmanship and camaraderie. These blades are built on strong bonds and blading together brings out the best in everyone at work.

Ms Goh Yeng Li, Protocol Officer, SERI The “Crayon Shinchan” in Tarzan-wear. I shall call him Tar-Shin.

His job is to keep my team entertained and invigorated!! Read about Yeng Li’s love for the fast lane on page 29.

Who’s on the cover Bladerunners: 1 Goh Yeng Li Protocol Officer SERI Admin, IRB Secretariat, SERI 2 Patrica Mak Clinical Data Coordinator Singapore Cardiac Data Bank, NHC 3 Ken Chong Kian Sheu Executive Support Services, NHC The Roller Blading Team consists of staff from various departments in NHC and their family members, as well as staff from other SingHealth institutions.

Read more about their rollicking fun on page 29.

Be a cover model!

E-mail us a line on what makes you or your colleagues interesting. If a photo tells the story better, send it in as well to me.sh@singhealth.com.sg

ver the last eight years, we have built a strong foundation across Outram Campus and the various institutions to work together and harness the strengths of our collective group to deliver excellent patient care, education and research.

At the National Medical Excellence Awards 2008, Health Minister Khaw Boon Wan commented that Outram Campus has a great chance of success because of its strong talent pool, excellent clinical assets in SGH and the various national specialty centres, and its partnership with Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School.

It is indeed exciting times for all of us as we see Outram Campus evolve into a vibrant campus of academic medicine. Having played a significant role in making a second medical school a reality, SingHealth now has an active partner in Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School.

As we move forward, SingHealth must stay focused in developing our talent, and integrating our clinical services, teaching and research in a holistic manner. With patients at the heart of all we do, we power up Outram Campus and KKH to be what the Health Minister terms as a “medical city”.

To achieve this, newly appointed leaders at the Corporate Office will take the group forward to a new phase of excellence.

POWERHOUSE PORTFOLIOS Take a peek into the portfolios of SingHealth’s new leaders.

Prof Ivy Ng • Deputy CEO of SingHealth from 1 July.

• Concurrently CEO of KKH. • Key Role: To support GCEO in planning and implementing strategies and to provide oversight to all the entities under SingHealth as well as the Corporate Office.

Prof Ang Chong Lye • CEO of SGH from 1 May. • Concurrently Assistant CEO (Clinical Services) of SingHealth from 1 July.

• Key Role: To provide leadership in coordination of patient-centric care on Outram Campus.

Prof Soo Khee Chee • Assistant CEO (Research & Education) of SingHealth from 1 July.

• Concurrently Director of NCCS. • Key Role: To lead in the coordination of research activities within Outram Campus and with Duke-NUS GMS.

Prof Donald Tan • Medical Director of SNEC from 1 May. • Continues as Director of Singapore Eye Research Institute.

• Key Role: To lead SNEC in the delivery of the best possible yet cost-effective ophthalmic eye care in Singapore. To steer SNEC to be a leader in ophthalmic education and vision research, both at the regional and international levels.

Read more about what keeps them impassioned in me+living (pages 26-27).

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Powering Up A Medical City O

Dynamic leadership and teamwork within a streamlined structure will help Singapore reach its goal as a world-class medical hub. me+SH highlights our new leaders as SingHealth embarks on this next phase in the pursuit of excellence.

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me+GROUP

Presenting the nine winners, and what their peers say about them:

Professional Category – Medical: A/Prof Hwang Nian Chih Senior Consultant Anaesthesia & Surgical Intensive Care, SGH

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A responsible, dependable, self-motivated yet humble clinician, who is innovative and handson in whatever tasks he engages in. He inspires and brings out the best in others.

Celebrating Outstanding People

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True healthcare can only be GCEO Excellence provided by professionals who Awards 2008 have that sense of calling – represents SingHealth’s people who have the special ability highest tribute to to heal the body, comfort the mind staff excellence and and soothe the soul,” said Prof recognises exemplary Tan Ser Kiat, SingHealth GCEO, in professionals who are his opening address entitled “Our role models in their People, Our Pride” at the GCEO work, competency and Excellence Awards 2008 on 9 April, character. held at The Glass Hall, Singapore Art Museum.

According to Prof Tan, healthcare is much more than bricks and mortar, or processes; it is all about the quality of our people and the care they provide. In fact, without the right people, excellent care is not possible. Therefore he exhorts, “Let us emulate them (the winners) and spur ourselves to become people who embody both excellence in capability, and excellence in character.”

SingHealth staff took centrestage at the award ceremony, aptly themed “An Evening Celebrating Staff Excellence”, where winners were lauded for their exemplary work and character. Adding to the star quality of the event, this year’s awards, now in its fourth year, were announced by last year’s winners. The winners were picked by a distinguished

Professional Category – Nursing: Ms Tan Ah Pang Deputy Director, Nursing, SGH SingHealth Alice Lee Institute of Advanced Nursing

An exemplary role model in nursing practice and education, her meticulous efforts in nursing education played a pivotal role in achieving SingHealth’s accreditation with the American Nurses Credentialling Centre (ANCC).

Professional Category – Allied Health: Ms Crystal Lim Senior Principal Medical Social Worker Medical Social Services, SGH

A role model and mentor among her colleagues and peers because of her broad knowledge base, clinical skills and high competency, as well as her commitment and zeal in learning and service.

panel of judges comprising external professionals who gave high commendation to all 38 nominees for their passion, dedication and contribution to patient care.

“Our judges were very impressed by the quality of talent within SingHealth. Deciding on the final nine winners for the GCEO Excellence Awards was not an easy task. Perhaps the best principle here is primus inter pares, meaning ‘first among equals’,” said Ms Geraldine Lee, SingHealth Group HR Director.

Open Category – Education: Dr Simon Ong Senior Consultant Medical Oncology, NCCS

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Professional Category – Ancillary: Ms Mary Tang Patient Service Clerk Ward 58, SGH

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Regarded as a leader and mentor by her colleagues, she takes pride in her work and is very passionate in helping people, colleagues and patients alike. She goes the extra mile.

Professional Category – Administration: Ms Celestine Chan Senior Social Work Assistant Medical Social Services, CGH

A highly respected teacher and inspiring mentor in clinical education, he views teaching junior doctors and medical students both a privilege and a great opportunity to develop the potential in every individual.

Open Category – Biomedical Research: Dr Philip Wong Senior Consultant Cardiology, NHC

A truly worthy role model for excellence in service quality. She delivers consistent and outstanding service to both her internal and external customers.

His pioneering achievements in establishing a core research team at NHC are highly commendable and his dedication towards cardiovascular research makes him truly outstanding in the field.

Open Category – Clinical Service: Ms Norhayati Binte Ahmad Senior Nurse Manager Orthopaedic Surgery, SGH

Open Category – Clinical Research: Dr Hsu Pon Poh Head, Clinical Trials & Research and Senior Consultant, Department of Otolaryngology, CGH

Devoted to providing the best outcome and patient experience, she is an ideal example for others to follow in nursing practice management.

A joyous and memorable night in every sense of the word, SingHealth also took the opportunity to launch me+SH, a new magazine that celebrates staff achievements and covers key developments in the group. (more photos on page 14 and 15)

Reputed for his breakthrough in developing a research culture at CGH and his significant contributions to clinical research in the field of otolaryngology.

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May Day Awards

SINGHEALTH SHINES AT THE AWARDS May Day Model Workers Awards Presented on 10 May 2008 The May Day Model Workers Awards are given out every year to outstanding workers for their contributions to Singapore’s economy. The awards serve to inspire and motivate other workers to further improve their productivity and performance at work with a positive mindset. This year’s winners include:

Presented on 19 April 2008 The recent May Day Awards saw SingHealth clinching a series of top awards in recognition of its work and effort towards promoting good industrial relations and fair employment practices.

SingHealth received the Plaque of Commendation and this award affirms SingHealth’s strong collaboration with the Healthcare Services Employees’ Union (HSEU).

In addition, Mrs Karen Koh, former DCEO of SingHealth, was awarded a Medal of Commendation and Ms Lau Soy Soy, Senior Nurse Manager, CGH, received the Comrade of Labour award.

PS21 Star Service Awards Silver Collar Heavyweights (mature workers who have integrated well into the workplace) • Lee Li Beng, Administrative Assistant, KKH • Ranjit Singh, Healthcare Assistant, CGH

Presented on 14 May 2008 The public service-wide Star Service Award was introduced by the PS21 Quality Service Committee in 2003 to recognise public officers who consistently provide excellent service. In all, 82 officers received the award at the ceremony. SingHealth stole the limelight, winning three of the five PS21 Star Service Awards (Healthcare Sector).

We congratulate: 1. Ms Janet Khoo, Nurse Clinician, O&G, SGH – Distinguished Service Star Award 2. Dr Tan Hak Koon, Senior Consultant, O&G, SGH – Public Service Star 3. Dr Kevin Lim Boon Leong, Consultant, Orthopaedic Surgery, KKH – Public Service Star

Upgraders for Life (workers who have an attitude of lifelong learning) • Fatimah Taha Suhaimi, Senior Enrolled Nurse, CGH • Tan Lee Cheng, Senior Enrolled Nurse, CGH • Loh Siew Luan Mary, Executive, KKH • Nur Erlina Bte Ibrahim, Ward Clerk, KKH Inclusive Workplace – Company Commendations: KK Women’s and Children’s Hospital

STaR & Clinician Scientist Awards Presented on 28 May 2008 The Ministry of Health and the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR) have put forward the Singapore Translational Research Investigator Award (STaR) and the Clinician Scientist Award (CSA), providing further boost to the pool of clinician scientists and translational researchers in Singapore. Award winners from SingHealth and Outram Campus include: Singapore Translational Research Investigator Award (STaR) Name

Institution

Area of research

Prof Wong Tien Yin Prof Michael Chee Wei Liang* Prof David M Virshup

SERI/SNEC/NUS Duke-NUS GMS Duke-NUS GMS

Retinal diseases, retinal imaging, ophthalmology, cardiovascular risk prediction Cognitive Neuroscience Cancer

Name

Institution

Area of research

Senior Investigator – five-year programme A/Prof Aung Tin* A/Prof Ong Sin Tiong A/Prof Tan Eng King*

SNEC/NUS Duke-NUS GMS NNI/NUS

Angle closure glaucoma Leukaemia Essential Tremors

Clinician Scientist Award

* Pioneer batch of Clinician Scientist Investigator (CSI) awardees in 2004

about

With patient care at the heart of all we do, the SingHealth InfoTech (IT) department introduces innovation in care delivery.

PLACE YOUR “MEDICAL ORDER” Medical records just got better, faster, more accurate and more efficient, thanks to an improved Electronic Medical Record (EMR) system upgrade. This major exercise has been aptly named “Mission for Improving Clinical Outcomes” or MICO for short.

MICO is not just a migration exercise, it is also a clinical transformation that ensures a safer clinical environment with better patient outcomes. For one, the new Eclipsys Sunrise Clinical Manager (SCM) 5.0 will replace the current iSOFT Clinical Manager (iCM) from October 2008.

The SCM entails the implementation of a robust Computerised Physician Order Entry (CPOE) system whereby doctors can now place “orders” via electronic means for laboratory tests and X-rays. CPOE will be launched in December 2008 at CGH and available cluster-wide by 2010.

To further ensure patient safety, SingHealth IT is also implementing the Pharmacy/Closed Loop Medication Management

(CLMM) system. Complying with the five “R”s of medication administration – Right person, Right drug, Right dose, Right time and Right route – Pharmacy/ CLMM will be launched as a pilot project for KKH inpatients from April 2009. In addition, the implementation of Inpatient Medical Orders and Medication Administration will begin with NHC wards from April to June 2009.

Dr Low Cheng Ooi, CMB, CGH, and Dr Wong Yue Sie, Chairman, Division of Ambulatory and Clinical Services, SGH, both chair the MICO Project Steering Committee and oversee the implementation of SCM 5.0. Based on project requirements, various aspects of the EMR system upgrade will be supported by a range of Clinical Leads.

Look out for training opportunities in the near future to learn more about the new system. This major project is a significant improvement to our current system and it stems from our desire to help our clinicians achieve better clinical outcomes for our patients through reduction of error, more coordinated care and improved work processes.

IT !

SingHealth has made itself known internationally for its digital and IT innovations. Read on for a view of our worldwide footprints.

The Computerworld Honors Programme * Computerworld Honors Laureate Medal 2008 awarded in Washington DC on 2 June 2008.

Stockholm Challenge 2008 * Stockholm Challenge Finalist 2008 (Health Category) for paper entitled Digital Hospital – SingHealth’s Journey Towards Digitisation of Healthcare.

HIMSS AsiaPac 2008 * HIMSS (Healthcare Information and Management Systems Society AsiaPac Conference & Exhibition) held in Hong Kong on 20-23 May 2008 * Education session presentations – MyTelecare, MyEducarePersonalised Outpatient Chronic Disease Management Anytime, Anywhere by Mr Lim Fang Seng (IT Manager, SingHealth), Dr Ruth Lim Mien Choo (Director, SHPGeylang) and Dr Devendra Kanagalingam (Senior Consultant, Department of O&G, SGH) – Connecting Web of Care in Healthcare by Dr Goh Siang Hong (Chief and Senior Consultant, Department of A&E, CGH) * E-session presentations – Paradigm Shift in Bedside Care: Transforming Service Through Innovative Patient-Centred-Systems and Technology by Grace Ng (IT Senior Executive, SingHealth) – Interactive Patient Guide by Kelly Sia (IT Manager, CGH)

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I n T he News

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SINGHEALTH CORPORATE OFFICE RELIEF FOR VICTIMS OF CYCLONE NARGIS We responded swiftly to the call for help from the victims of Cyclone Nargis, which left numerous casualties and widespread devastation in its wake.

Following the Special ASEAN Foreign Minister meeting on 19 May 2008 during which Myanmar had agreed to allow ASEAN member countries to send in medical teams to assist in the urgent relief efforts, the Ministry of Health (MOH) of Singapore deployed two medical teams consisting of a total of four doctors and eight nurses from the hospitals and institutions in the two clusters.

Well done, Team SingHealth!

• Dr Arif Tyebally, Registrar, Department of Paediatric Medicine, KKH • Dr Fatimah Bte Abdul Lateef, Senior Consultant, Department of Emergency Medicine, SGH • Dr Simon Ong, Senior Consultant, Department of Oncology, NCCS • Dr Yong Wei Sean, Consultant, Department of Surgical Oncology, NCCS • Thida Phway, Staff Nurse, SOC Clinic, CGH • Arenawathy Bte Mohd Shah, Senior Staff Nurse, Intensive Care, KKH • Jamaliah Binte Hashim, Staff Nurse, OT Paediatric, KKH • Toh Hui Xian, Staff Nurse, Department of Emergency Medicine, SGH • Ng Wan Bee, Senior Staff Nurse, SHP– Seng Kang

Dr Arif Tyebally (far left), Registrar, Department of Paediatric Medicine, KKH, and leader of Team Singapore, treating victims of Cyclone Nargis at a school in Twan Tewah village.

NATIONAL MEDICAL EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNERS MOH recognises the following individuals and teams for their significant contributions in their respective areas in the inaugural National Medical Excellence Award held on 26 March 2008. Winners from SingHealth were recognised for their contributions amidst a backdrop of biomedical sciences initiatives.

– National Outstanding Clinician Mentor Award Winners: (In training young clinicians and clinician scientists via mentorship or academic positions) • Prof Soo Khee Chee, Director, NCCS • Prof Lee Eng Hin, Visiting Consultant, Department of Paediatric Orthopaedic Surgery, KKH – National Outstanding Clinician Scientist Award Winner: (In clinical and translational research work resulting in the novel understanding of diseases with a potential positive outcome on healthcare delivery) • Prof Donald Tan, Medical Director, SNEC – National Clinical Excellence Team Award Winners: (In patient safety and care through innovative transfer of positive research outcome) Perinatal Team, KKH represented by: • A/Prof Tan Kok Hian, Chairman, Division of O&G • A/Prof Alex Sia, Head and Senior Consultant, Department of Anaesthesia • Dr Pratibha Agarwal, Head and Senior Consultant, Special Care Nursery • Mdm Hoon Siew Jong, Nurse Manager

SINGHEALTH SIGNS MOU FOR PERSONALISED MEDICINE On 6 May 2008, SingHealth signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with Partnership for Personalised Medicine (PPM) to explore collaborative platforms that would improve healthcare outcomes and reduce costs through the development, validation and implementation of new molecular diagnostics. Representing PPM was esteemed 2001 Nobel Laureate Dr Lee Hartwell, president and director of Seattle’s Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Centre. During his two-day visit, he met up with Minister for Health Khaw Boon Wan and SingHealth’s key clinician leaders. He gave a presentation on personalised medicine and discussed possible partnership projects with SingHealth as well as molecular diagnostics of prevalent diseases. Learn more about Dr Hartwell’s work on page 16.

Get Fabulous, Get Glowing!

More than 500 women were empowered, inspired and rejuvenated at the SingHealth Signature Women’s Forum 2008, themed “Fabulous from 40!”, held on 19 April 2008 at Sheraton Towers Singapore.

Mrs Karen Koh, former DCEO of SingHealth, opened the forum, engaging the ladies with personal health anecdotes and SingHealth’s plans to launch a more accessible and comprehensive health portal. Keynote speakers from various health institutions covered topics such as managing menopause, facts and myths about breast cancer, common eye conditions, and the latest anti-ageing treatment options.

A panel of experts from SGH LIFE Centre also offered tips on holistic living. Photos of the event can be found on page 13.

The success of the DOT (Delivery on Target) programme, pioneered by SingHealth Quality Management Department in August 2005, has led to a national collaboration with NHG. It will put in place a model for cost-effective, integrated, community-based chronic care delivery to help patients with chronic diseases, such as diabetes.

DOT is part of concerted efforts to facilitate the transfer of long-term care for patients with chronic diseases from specialist clinics to GPs. Early and effective management of chronic diseases is critical in preventing long-term complications and their associated disabilities as well as lowering overall healthcare costs.

LIEN CENTRE FOR PALLIATIVE CARE The Duke-NUS Graduate Medical School (GMS) has teamed up with the Lien Foundation to establish Asia’s first research centre for palliative care. Lien Centre will tap on resources from Duke’s internationally renowned end-of-life and palliative care research programmes and NCCS’ clinical expertise in palliative care services, with active participation from SingHealth. The Centre, located at NCCS level four, is led by Dr Cynthia Goh, Senior Consultant & Head, Department of Palliative Medicine, NCCS and Associate Professor at Duke-NUS GMS.

OLD AND NEW EATS Come end August, the original foodstalls of the popular Housemen Canteen will be back cooking up your old favourites at a new location—the former Coronary Club at 10 College Road – which seats 150.

Expansion plans will be underway at The Kopitiam on Outram Campus to provide for a staff dining area. After these projects are completed, Café 155 will close to make way for a new isolation ward.

CHANGI GENERAL HOSPITAL (CGH) CGH GETS COVETED JCI ACCREDITATION CGH continues to uphold clinical quality and exacting standards, thereby retaining its JCI accreditation. In April 2008, CGH was the first hospital to be audited based on the third edition of the JCI Accreditation Standards

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SINGHEALTH AND NHG ON THE ‘DOT’

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SINGAPORE GENERAL HOSPITAL (SGH) me+GROUP

EMERITUS CONSULTANTS AWARDED

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for Hospitals. Assessors Dr Albert Vogel and Dr Nathan Erteschik declared in their closing address to a packed auditorium of over 300 tensed yet excited staff, that this was “the best report we (both) have ever seen in our surveys.” Kudos to the JCI Ops Team helmed by Dr Diana Tan, Consultant, Department of Radiology, who led CGH through months of grueling preparation.

KK WOMEN’S AND CHILDREN’S HOSPITAL (KKH) CHARITY FOR CHRONICALLY ILL KIDS Kidz Horizon Appeal 2008 raised a record $1.3 million for the KKH Health Endowment Fund. It held its second annual golf tournament at the Singapore Island Country Club earlier this year which brought in $640,000; and a charity ball themed “Inside Africa” at the Ritz Carlton Millenia Singapore on 15 March 2008, which raised $670,000.

Dr Caroline Low-Heah, Chairperson, Kidz Horizon Appeal 2008, says the appeal has adopted the Fund for four years and raised over half a million dollars yearly. Since last year, they decided to support chronically ill children suffering from HIV, cancer, etc who are not helped by other children’s organisations, thus lifting the financial burden of needy patients.

Prof Tan Ser Kiat and Prof Tay Boon Keng were conferred the titles of Emeritus Consultant at the 15th SGH Formal Dinner in recognition of their dedication, service, teaching and research contributions in the field of orthopaedic surgery, the development of SGH, and overall quest for medical excellence in Singapore.

THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE The 17th SGH Annual Scientific Meeting and Evidence-based Medicine Seminar 2008 was held on 25 April 2008 at College of Medicine Building. In his speech entitled “Team-based Healthcare In An Academic Environment”, Dr Tony Tan, Chairman of National Research Foundation, spoke on the timeliness for SGH to leverage on its growing strengths in clinical research and education, and build upon a solid foundation of clinical service.

NATIONAL CANCER CENTRE SINGAPORE (NCCS) HEALTH CARNIVAL IN HEARTLANDS This year’s June holidays started off with a first-ever mega “Health-in-the-Heartlands” carnival, aimed at raising public awareness in the fight against cancer. It was launched by Dr Vivian Balakrishnan, Minister for Community Development, Youth and Sports on 31 May 2008 at IMM shopping mall in Jurong.

NCCS Director, Prof Soo Khee Chee said: “This is the first major concerted effort by various departments within NCCS to hold a public education exercise in order to reach out to as many people as we can. We want to tell them that firstly, cancer can be prevented; and secondly, early detection through screenings, in many cases, can often lead to a cure.”

A BOOK FOR MUMS-TO-BE Launched in May, The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth, written by Dr Tan Thiam Chye, Dr Tan Kim Teng, Dr Tan Heng Hao and A/Prof John Tee from KKH Division of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, demystifies the worries and myths in pregnancy. It also includes contributions from experts on nutrition, physiotherapy, neonatology, dermatology, dentistry, psychiatry, Traditional Chinese Medicine, anaesthesia and pharmacy.

SingHealth Chairman Mr Bernard Chen (left) presenting the trophy to GCEO Prof Tan Ser Kiat.

The New Art and Science of Pregnancy and Childbirth is available at all major bookstores and the KKH Pharmacy.

Prof Tay Boon Keng (right) receiving the trophy.

Director of NDC Dr Kwa Chong Teck with Mr Egidio Cianciosi, KaVo’s Business Unit Manager (Imaging) for Asia Pacific after signing the agreement.

NATIONAL DENTAL CENTRE SINGAPORE (NDC) DENTAL RADIOLOGY GOES DIGITAL NDC and KaVo Dental Asia Pacific Pte Ltd signed an agreement that will see the development and deployment of a centrewide digital Dental Image Management Systems (DIMs) in the next nine months.

Dr Chua Ee Kiam, NDC Director of Clinical Support Services Unit, commented that the bar for diagnostic imagery in dentistry has certainly been raised with the latest acquisitions. With DIMS, dental radiology will be filmless and X-Rays can eventually be accessed and viewed directly on computer monitors in the operatories.

NATIONAL HEART CENTRE SINGAPORE (NHC) SAFER DIAGNOSTIC CARDIO PROCEDURES Patients undergoing Multi-Slice Computed Tomography (MSCT) investigations at NHC are now exposed to a markedly reduced radiation dose (up to 60%) with minimal or no reduction in image and diagnostic quality. This is achieved through a prospective scanning software called ‘Helical Prospective Scanning’ which uses a specialised computer algorithm to predict when the heart will be at rest and only then will the X-ray tube be turned on.

NHC organised a 10th Anniversary Dinner & Dance on 30 March 2008 at The Ritz-Carlton, Millenia Singapore. Graced by Senior Minister Goh Chok Tong, over 700 guests including medical luminaries, top cardiologists and cardiothoracic surgeons, ex-patients and staff attended this event.

A commemorative book was launched

by SM Goh entitled Hearts Of Gold—At The Forefront Of Heart Care In Singapore, the first in Singapore to chronicle the nation’s major milestones in cardiology and cardiothoracic surgery. Adding to the celebratory mood, wellknown philanthropist, Mr Goh Cheng Liang, on behalf of the Goh Foundation, made a generous donation of $10 million to the NHC Health Endowment Fund.

NATIONAL NEUROSCIENCE INSTITUTE (NNI) Symposium For Patient Care The NNI Inaugural Symposium on Normal Pressure Hydrocephalus (NPH) held on 5 April 2008 at the NNI Exhibition Hall, provided medical professionals a platform to discuss the latest issues relating to NPH. “We hope that through this symposium, medical professionals who are seeing NPH patients or potential patients have a better idea of the management guidelines and treatment options available,” explained Dr Ernest Wang, NNI Consultant, Neurosurgeon and chairman of the symposium.

PRESTIGIOUS GORDON RESEACH AWARD FOR NNI Congratulations to Dr Esther Wong, a postdoctoral fellow affiliated with the NNI Neurodegeneration Research Laboratory, who won a cash (travel) award in a poster competition at the prestigious Gordon Research Conference held in California early this year.

me+GROUP

NHC TURNS 10

11

me+GROUP 12

NEW TESTS FOR MOVEMENT DISORDERS

SINGHEALTH POLYCLINICS (SHP)

The NNI Motor Control Laboratory was set up by the Parkinson’s Disease and Movement Disorders Centre (PDMDC) to provide diagnostic evaluation of PD and movement disorders through various methods of quantitative measures and electrophysiological studies. It offers services such as motor-time testing, on-off evaluation, and deep brain stimulation (DBS) programming and evaluation.

SHP CLINCHES INTERNATIONAL HEALTHCARE AWARDS At the 1st International Conference of Healthcare Transformation—Primary Healthcare Focus, held at Suntec Convention Centre from 9 to 11 May 2008, SHP Pharmacy won the following categories: • Best Poster Award—Improving Compliance with Metered-Dose Inhaler (MDI) Techniques • Best Oral Presentation—Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) On MeteredDose Inhaler (MDI) Techniques In A Primary Healthcare Setting Paerarasi d/o Muthiah (left) and Sarah Tay Siew Cheng receiving the Best Poster Award and Best Oral Presentation Award respectively at the conference.

INDUSTRY NEWS IN BRIEF Linda Yong, Technician, NNI Neurodiagnostic Laboratory, with a patient.

SINGAPORE NATIONAL EYE CENTRE (SNEC) MOH GRANT FOR EYE RESEARCH Translational Research Innovations in Ocular Surgery (TRIOS) has been awarded $25 million under the Translational and Clinical Research (TCR) Flagship Programme, jointly administered

by MOH and A*STAR. The TRIOS Programme, led by Medical Director of SNEC and Director of Singapore Eye Research Institute, Prof Donald Tan, assembles collaborative teams of local clinician researchers from both healthcare clusters, basic scientists and bioengineers from local and international academic research institutions in Japan, USA, UK, Australia, Israel, China and Germany.

The TCR Flagship Programme provides a platform for researchers and clinical scientists from various disciplines to pool their resources and expertise in solving scientific problems and translating their research into quality healthcare solutions to benefit patients.

GP SUBSIDIES FOR ELDERLY AND DISABLED MOH has decided to extend the Primary Care Partnership Scheme (PCPS) to cover three major chronic diseases: diabetes, hypertension, and hyperlipidemia. Under the scheme, needy Singaporeans (per capita household income of $700 and below) aged 65 and above, or the disabled, will qualify for subsidised treatment for these chronic diseases at GP clinics contracted

by MOH. This will take effect from 1 January 2009. MOH aims to boost continuity of care and promote “One Family Physician for Every Singaporean” with this move.

Public First During the recent Public Service Week (14 to 20 May 2008), about 110,000 public officers pledged their commitment and dedication to serve Singapore and her citizens at observance ceremonies here and abroad. This annual event serves to remind these officers of their role in advancing the nation as well as to recognise their good work and forge a sense of pride in their career.

What:

SingHealth Signature Women’s Forum 2008: Fabulous from 40!

Where: Sheraton Towers Ballroom, Level 2 When:

19 April 2008

3

2

4

4

1.

2.

3.

4.

A/Prof Tay Boon Lin from KKH sharing tips on staying healthy after menopause.

SGH’s dietitians sharing tips on diet and nutrition.

Dr Tan Su-Ming (CGH) sharing with participants Overwhelming response from the strong turnout of more than 500 ladies.

me+HIGHLIGHTS

1

13

me+HIGHLIGHTS 14

What:

GCEO Excellence Awards 2008

Where: The Glass Hall, Singapore Art Museum When:

9 April 2008

me+HIGHLIGHTS 15

What:

Launch of me+SH

Where: The Glass Hall, Singapore Art Museum When:

9 April 2008

me+FOCUS

2001 Nobel Laureate Dr Lee Hartwell, president and director of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, was in town recently to discuss “Partnership for Personalised Medicine”, a non-profit initiative which he heads.

Its goal is the development, validation, and clinical application of new molecular diagnostics, designed to improve health outcomes and reduce medical costs. Get to know the person, his life’s work and achievements.

16

Making edicine ersonal

M

P

By Dr Toh Han Chong, Senior Consultant, NCCS and Director of Clinical Trials, SingHealth

Seattle in the ’70s – of coffee & cell division Imagine yourself sipping a latte in Starbucks, listening to piped in music

by Pearl Jam or Nirvana as you log into your MSN Messenger while reading an article on “Cell Division” – every icon I just mentioned has something to do with Seattle.

Our knowledge of “Cell Division” can be attributed largely to Dr Lee Hartwell—winner of the 2001 Nobel Prize for Physiology or Medicine—for his discovery of the regulation of the cell cycle.

Incidentally, he performed much of his seminal work on genes that regulate the cell cycle on the uncannily simple baker’s yeast at Seattle’s University of Washington.

The good scientist has made much headway since the 1970s, where knowledge on cell division was still a black box. Urban legend has it that fellow 2001 Nobel Prize winner, Dr Tim Hunt, used to spend many quiet dinners eating alone because his college mates were either skeptical or clueless about the research he was doing. On the contrary, Dr Hartwell recalls those pioneering years as inspirational. He was surrounded by many outstanding mentors and colleagues endowed with a generous spirit of collaboration. Together, they identified the genes involved in controlling the cell cycle in yeast cells, a model system that would prove to be evolutionarily conserved in humans, and therefore totally translatable to human health and disease.

means, the number of patients saved would be enormous! Large amounts of societal and individual money and resources are currently spent managing chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease and neurodegenerative disease in their later irreversible stages, and mostly improving outcomes only modestly.

As Dr Hartwell laments, new drugs are costly to develop and often fail along the testing stage. Of those few that succeed, many still have not made an impressive enough clinical impact for patients. Therefore it is better to detect the disease early and have a molecular profile of a patient which would predict for a favourable outcome to a specific drug or intervention. This simple yet important mantra will reshape the way we think about, and deal with diseases.

Dr Hartwell’s pioneering spirit to redefine the way medicine is practised is both infectious and admirable.

Most importantly, it has brought him to Singapore, and for this we are grateful.

... the person Dr Lee Hartwell is the president and director of the Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center in Seattle, USA, and professor of genome sciences at the University of Washington. He has also received the Albert Lasker Basic Medical Research Award, Gairdner Foundation International Award and Alfred P. Sloan Award in Cancer Research. Governor Gary Locke of the State of Washington proclaimed 10 December 2001 as Dr Lee Hartwell Day.

... these words • • •

Molecular diagnostics – Tests and methods to identify a disease or the predisposition for a disease analysing DNA or RNA of an organism.

Genomics – The study of genomes (a full set of chromosomes, that is, all the inheritable traits of an organism).

Proteomics – The analysis of the expression, localisations, functions, and interactions of proteomes (the set of proteins expressed by the genetic material of an organism under a given set of environmental conditions).

me+FOCUS

Singapore in 2008 – of partnerships & proteomics Just recently in May this year, Dr Hartwell visited SingHealth to explore collaborative platforms for a unique initiative called “Partnership for Personalised Medicine”. He chairs the Partnership executive committee which includes Dr George Poste, director of the Biodesign Institute at Arizona State University, and Dr Jeffrey Trent, president and scientific director of the Translational Genomics Research Institute (TGen).

The vision of this non-profit, largely philanthropy-driven organisation is to harness cutting-edge enabling technology, particularly proteomics, to predict, diagnose and treat disease based on each individual’s unique physiological profile.

Such a strategy would eventually further empower physicians to improve health outcomes and reduce medical costs. As an example, if one can detect major cancers in their earliest stages by simple and sensitive

17

me+FOCUS

The FORMULA 1™ SingTel Singapore Grand Prix takes place from 26-28 September 2008, and SingHealth has been appointed to operate the Circuit Medical Centre with SGH as the official receiving hospital. me+SH finds out the excitement that awaits as we count down to the world’s first ever F1 night race.

18

Revving up Since our appointment as the lead hospital system in the FORMULA 1™ (F1) race, we have received enthusiastic response from SingHealth colleagues and racing enthusiasts.

To date, the SingHealth/SGH F1 medical team has worked overtime, pulling together experts, and preparing for the setting up and running of the Circuit Medical Centre. The medical team comprises a full complement of about 100 medical personnel including specialist doctors, nurses, and paramedics from SingHealth institutions and other healthcare institutions from NHG and private practice.

Turning points Located next to the Pit Building, a key piece of infrastructure for the F1 SingTel Singapore Grand Prix, the Circuit Medical Centre will be outfitted to resemble the A&E department in SGH, so as to enable the medical team to work effectively in a familiar environment. Led by Dr Alexander Chung, Senior Consultant at SGH Department of General Surgery, the Circuit Medical Centre will be staffed by top notch emergency physicians, trauma surgeons, anaesthetists, orthopaedic surgeons, nursing and allied health personnel. Casualties received by the Centre will either be treated onsite, or, if seriously injured, stabilised and sent to SGH for further treatment.

Apart from stabilising casualties from motor racing accidents (and we really don’t hope for any!), the Centre will also provide more routine medical services for minor ailments. It will serve as a “pitstop” for stocking all First Intervention Vehicles (FIVs) and track ambulances for medical equipment and consumables.

Flag off!

As Race Day approaches, the medical team will familiarise itself with race operations and lingo, and personal safety.

Complementing the team will be volunteers from SingHealth and other healthcare institutions who will form the Fast Intervention Teams (medical personnel first to be on the track in the event of an accident), Extrication Teams, and spectator medical teams working closely with the Singapore Red Cross and St John Ambulance Brigade. All medical teams are led by Chief Medical Officer (CMO) Dr Carl Le, and assisted by Deputy CMO Dr Kelvin Chew from CGH. Together, we will handle a myriad medical situations, both on and off the track.

me+FOCUS 19

100! That’s the number of medical volunteers from SingHealth and healthcare institutions onsite and in SGH with the knowledge, skills, heartware and hardware needed for this exhilarating event of a lifetime!

The heartware SGH has over 35 specialty and sub-specialty practices including traumatology, cardiothoracic and neurosurgery, and houses the national burns centre.

SGH trauma team comprises multi-specialty surgeons and emergency medicine physicians who will be immediately at hand to institute advanced trauma life support measures in the Emergency Medicine Dept and seamlessly prepare for emergency surgery where appropriate.

teams to look out for: Ferrari, MacLaren-Mercedes, BMW Sauber

drivers to feast your eyes on: Lewis Hamilton (MacLaren-Mercedes) and Kimi Räikkönen (Ferrari)

race to focus on: The world’s first night race from 26 to 28 September 2008.

Who’s who from SingHealth At SingHealth, positions have been set up to oversee the efforts to provide medical support at the event. The working group is led by Prof Tay Boon Keng, CMB International, SingHealth and assisted by Dr Alexander Chung and Dr Jeremy Lim, Director of Policy and Research, SingHealth.

Dr Kelvin Chew, Consultant Sports Medicine Physician, Changi Sports Medicine Centre and Singapore Sports Medicine Centre, has been appointed the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for the 2008 FORMULA 1™ SingTel Singapore Grand Prix.

“The biggest benefit of being involved with the race is the enhancement of operational capabilities and readiness. The medical team will gain firsthand experience on planning and executing medical coverage at an international sporting event.

The grounding involved in the development process of the medical plan is important and can be adapted for future events of such scale,” said Dr Kelvin Chew.

Visit www.singaporegp.sg for more adrenaline rush.

me+SPOTLIGHT

Affordable Healthcare through Strategic Sourcing

20

The lancet that saved the day.

T

he Group Procurement Office (GPO) was reorganised in 2003 to manage strategic sourcing across SingHealth institutions.

It goes beyond traditional purchasing functions by focusing on reducing total cost of ownership (internal and external costs), instead of simply getting lower prices. This approach requires rigorous examination to challenge existing assumptions and refinement of requirements from the end-user as well as our vendor, without compromising the quality of services and products.

GPO comprises the pharmaceutical arm, which consolidates drug purchases

for both SingHealth and NHG clusters, to ensure a continuous supply of quality pharmaceutical products at competitive prices.

The non-pharmaceutical arm, on the other hand, undertakes the purchase of capital equipment, IT, medical & surgical supplies and contract services viz electricity supply, waste management, housekeeping, corporate travel and stationeries.

USER CHAMPIONS IN PROCUREMENT To date, GPO has achieved more than $90 million in savings, thanks to our User Champions who have been actively involved in the joint-evaluation of drugs, services, products and equipment procurred through GPO contracts. For example, during GPO’s first review of lancets, many clinicians and nurses helped to streamline and standardise the blood-drawing product which resulted in enhanced safety for staff as they become familiar with using just two brands of lancets instead of 17, and all at a good price.

The Tale of the Mighty Lancet Before GPO

Actions By GPO

After GPO

- 17 brands from 7 vendors

- Analysis of market and product Information

- 2 brands from 2 vendors

- Different prices across SingHealth cluster

- Review and reduce cost factors

- Enhance safety for staff and patients

- Confusion and disharmony

- Streamline and standardise products

- Better pricing for institutions

- Misallocation of resources

- Thorough evaluation by clinician champion, Dr Ong Nai Theow (KKH), and nursing champions Grace Chang (CGH); Khoo Siok Hong & Christine Sin (KKH); Kaldip Kaur & Lim Bee Choo (SGH); and Tan Joon Fong & Nancy Liew (SNEC)

- Better allocation of resources for back-end support

CONTINUOUS IMPROVEMENT GPO constantly benchmarks itself with the industry’s best practices.

Prior to embarking on corporate travel management in late 2004, SingHealth could not secure

me+SPOTLIGHT

VENDOR PARTNERSHIP & COLLABORATION GPO collaborates with key vendors on creative ways to add value to the organisation beyond pricing alone. For example, patients can directly benefit from the SingHealth DOT (Delivering on Target) initiative that involves general practitioners (GPs), vendor Johnson & Johnson Medical (J&J), SingHealth Quality Management Department (QMD) and GPO. Dr Daphne Khoo, Director of QMD, SingHealth, saw the need to have chronic disease management resources, namely GPs, in the community—especially those that could be closely integrated with the hospital. One important step was to develop a comprehensive clinical training and assessment programme for committed GPs. She explored the idea with GPO, which in turn negotiated with J&J to turn the concept into a threeyear partnership programme as part of a medical supplies deal. As a result, more than 500 patients have benefited from this fruitful collaboration, which is demonstrated by an improvement in the clinical targets and indicators.

21

Members from GPO at a team “advance” early this year.

any discounted airfares directly with established airlines. By centralising travel to a single agency, our end-users, Finance Departments and GPO are able to view travel spend clearly, highlight frequently traveled sectors thus reaching the pinnacle of discounts extended by SIA, UA, NWA, BA, Qantas, Air France & KLM from 7% up to 50%—a rate accorded to MNCs, ministries and statutory boards.

GPO has also sought better travel management services and good enhancement initiatives like crisis management, 24/7 emergency services, online bookings, excess baggage clearance, and global hotel and carrier share-shift programmes. The traveler no longer requires three quotations when they travel and late-payment incidences have been reduced with the introduction of e-invoicing.

TEAM SPIRIT The GPO team comprises 15 full-time staff headed by Group Chief Procurement Officer Foo Hee Jug, with another nine drawn from the institutions’ Materials Management Departments. Designed to be organisationally lean on a matrix reporting structure, such direct involvement of staff in group purchases will foster greater ownership and buy-in, critical to the success of GPO. “The success of GPO is largely due to the excellent teamwork, cohesiveness, motivation and morale of our staff, together with cooperation from all institution staff and strong management support,” said Mrs Chan Ek Huar, Director, Pharmaceutical Purchasing, GPO.

GPO TRIVIA...

• More than • • •

?

did you know

S$90million

541million 940 million 73,700 metres

of savings have been achieved

needles and syringes are ordered a year pills and capsules are purchased a year of fabric is used to make all SingHealth nurses’ uniforms for the first year

me+SPOTLIGHT

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Blueprint

185

for World-Class

75

Medical Hub

22 20

165

185

75

130

At SingHealth, our dedication to our patients inspires the blueprint for a medical city of excellence. Indeed, patients are at the heart of all we do. Read about the passion of our award winners to provide the best patient care possible.

Advocate Crystal Lim Medical Social Worker, SGH As an MSW, I have a professional and ethical responsibility to ensure that marginalised and needy patients have access to good healthcare services, so that no one is missed out in our nation’s journey to medical excellence. Helping patients and families deal with the psychosocial impact of illness, and being their voice as they navigate the healthcare system are among the critical roles that I play.

Innovator Dr Hsu Pon Poh Director, Integrated Sleep Service Head, Clinical Trials and Research Unit, CGH As doctors, we not only have direct contact with patients but also solve problems in translational research.

We developed the Computer Assisted Upper Airway Analysis and Calibrated Cephalometry, a novel invention that allows us to come up with sets of Airway predictors for the local population. I have been invited to lecture in many parts of the world so that other doctors and surgeons can learn about innovations in this field. This could potentially lead to more precise surgical intervention and avoid unnecessary surgery to benefit our patients.

Commander Dr Philip Wong Senior Consultant, Cardiology, NHC With my extensive clinical experience and a deeper understanding of translational research processes from my stint at the Massachusetts General Hospital in Boston, I am trying to develop clear and sustainable research resources within our hospital and in Singapore. My role is that of a frontline commander who has risen from the ranks. It is now time to nurture the ‘Next Gen’ unit and to offer my experience to develop better, more precise tools and ‘weapons’ that will gain the upper hand in our constant fight with human disease.

Forerunner Norhayati Bte Ahmad Senior Nurse Manager, Orthopaedic Department, SGH In order to build a valuable knowledge base to serve more local and international patients, I will continue to share my knowledge with nurses and healthcare practitioners through conferences and exchange programmes. In addition to that, we must teach and equip our staff to meet the challenges in patient care that are posed by technological advancements.

Mary Tang Patient Service Clerk, Ward 58, General Surgery, SGH I find my work very satisfying because I like to tackle problems. For example, when there is a bed shortage, I help re-arrange bed occupancy to free up beds for new patients.

I’d be very bored if there was nothing to solve. My contributions help make life and work easier for the medical professionals.

Sentinel Clinical A/Prof Tan Kok Hian Chairman, O&G Division, KKH I think my strongest contribution is in the area of clinical quality, where I serve as the chairperson of the JCI committee as well as the director of Clinical Quality. We will continue to take perinatal care to a higher level in terms of clinical service, education and research. KKH practises a strong teambased approach to ensure continuity and coordination of care for mothers and babies.

Guardian Mdm Hoon Siew Jong Nurse Manager, KKH As nurses in KKH, we are involved in delivering new life to this world and there is never a dull moment. Since March 2008, KKH has offered intrapartum midwives-led care to mothers in labour who have no medical problems during their pregnancy. Here, the midwife is with the patient throughout the whole delivery process, providing much needed comfort and support.

GCEO Excellence Award 2008: - Crystal Lim—Professional Category (Allied Health) - Mary Tang—Professional Category (Ancillary) - Norhayati Bte Ahmad—Open Category (Clinical Service) - Dr Philip Wong—Open Category (Biomedical Research) - Dr Hsu Pon Poh—Open Category (Clinical Research)

National Clinical Excellence Team Award: - Clinical A/Prof Tan Kok Hian - A/Prof Alex Sia - Dr Pratibha Agarwal - Mdm Hoon Siew Jong

Patients.

At the Heart of All We Do.

me+SPOTLIGHT

Problem Solver

23

Protector Dr Pratibha Agarwal Head and Senior Consultant of Special Care Nursery, KKH As a neonatologist, I care for the newborns at KKH. In the past, care was not as seamless and continuous. Now, we are moving towards shared care through a multidisciplinary approach, beginning at the antenatal stage.

We discuss, as a team, with the parents so that they know us and are able to trust us right from the start. This perinatal concept has improved outcomes of care for mothers and babies.

Researcher A/Prof Alex Sia Head of Women’s Anaesthesia, KKH My area of research is in the relief of labour pains because we must take care of our patients’ welfare. KKH is one of the leading authorities in this area and we want to move towards individualised therapy. In order to provide better patient care and comfort, we’ve developed a Computer Integrated PatientControlled Epidural Pain Relief that helps to monitor the amount of anaesthesia released to a patient during childbirth. Pain management during childbirth is becoming more important because it is not acceptable anymore to see another person in pain and not do anything about it.

me+SPOTLIGHT 24

Hear it from

th e

Endorphin levels may go up

Ex p er t s

&

Jogging

the Body

5 -fold during an intense exercise.

Brain: Several studies have shown that regular physical

exercise can retard or prevent certain adverse mental and cognitive effects associated with ageing, such as dementia and Alzheimer’s disease. Moreover, endorphins, which are responsible for the “exercise high” or “runner’s high” associated with moderate to high intensity exercises, are released in the brain.

The effects include euphoria, exhilaration, improved pain tolerance and a reduction in anxiety, tension and anger.

Dr Roger Tian Resident Physician, CGH

Joggers who have trained for a marathon are suffer a cardiac attack during a 26-mile run.

Find out what actually goes in to the different parts of your body when you go jogging.

Here we take a look at the effects of the activity on a 30year-old male of medium build.

10 times less likely to

Heart: Jogging is an excellent form of aerobic exercise.

Aerobic cardiovascular exercise is essential in the maintenance of a healthy heart and its coronary arteries. Regular exercise also results in lower blood pressure, higher metabolic rate and overall, an improved general health of an individual.

Dr Tan Swee Yaw Consultant, NHC

Are Your Shoes Right For You?

More than are used.

430 muscles

Muscles: Exercising builds up muscle fibres in the body. Type 1 slow-twitch muscle fibre is built up through endurance running such as marathons. Type 2 fasttwitch muscle fibre is built up through fast bursts of energy runs such as sprints.

Everybody has both muscle types but they are built up according to our needs and training levels.

Mr Max Lim Physiotherapist, CGH

7

A force of up to times your own body weight is exerted through the feet.

Feet: The normal actions

Running Lab is a specialty running store retailing technically advanced running apparel, equipment and footwear. It is staffed by sports trainers and experienced runners who have the expertise to match the right shoe to your foot type. This helps maximize performance and reduces the risks of injuries. Our facilities include an in-house treadmill for gait analysis and for customers to test run the shoe before a purchasing decision is made. More than just a business venture, Running Lab promotes fitness and a healthy lifestyle by organising free weekly runs through some of the city's most scenic routes.

CUT OUT THIS PORTION TO GET A 20% OFF FOOTWEAR FROM RUNNING LAB (EXCLUDING MBT AND NIKE)

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Promotion valid for the month of September 2008.

of the foot when running, are inward and outward rolling, also known as pronation and supination respectively. Such movements absorb shock and propel the runner forward.

The motions are controlled by muscles in the lower leg and foot, with the main muscle groups (the peroneals) on the outer lower leg, and the anterior group in the front lower leg.

Mr Robert Ashton Podiatrist, SGH Mr James Valintine Podiatrist, SGH

Ready.

Get Set.

What better group sport than to gather around the TV to catch some action? With the coming Olympics, there are plenty of bonding sessions with fellow sports fans in front of the telly.

So if you’re going to be a couch potato, get everyone together and build camaraderie over a bag of chips.

GO-GGLEBOX SPORTS

25

?

Q: What is my favourite Olympic Sport

“Rhythmic gymnastics. It’s exciting with all the tossing, turning and somersaulting stunts they do. I even start to calculate points based on their moves and see if I come close to the judges’ marks at the end of their routine.”

Chen Zhili Staff Nurse, SGH

“Badminton. It’s a fun and fast game of serves, smashes and strategy!

I watch it together with my son who’s also a badminton player. More importantly this year, there is a strong chance that Malaysian Lee Chong Wei (ranked world number 2) will win the men’s single.

As an ex-Malaysian, I will follow him and badminton all the way!”

Helen Lim Programme Consultant of Silver Connection, SHS

“Table tennis. Realistically, it is one of the few sports that Singapore has a chance of winning a medal. I’m sure the whole country was in sorrow when Li Jiawei lost out on third place in Athens 2004.

The fast-paced action and the fact that we have one of our own to cheer on, will ensure that I’m in front of the TV whenever there’s a tabletennis competition.”

Clarence Lim Corporate Communications Officer, NCCS

Olympic fever is here! Find out what our staff poll reveals about our Olympian dreams.

If I were an Olympian, I would be the best: “Snowboarding, both giant slalom and half-pipe events.

Watching them speed down those beautiful slopes really gets the adrenaline going.

Hopefully I’ll get to see them live at the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympics.”

Dr Shawn Goh Department of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgery, NDC

Triathlete – I’m good at multi-tasking

(6.2%)

Swimmer – Staying afloat is my speciality

(32.8%)

Archer – Always hitting the mark

(6.8%)

Midfielder – Teammates trust me

(23.2%)

Marathon runner – Endurance and determination

(31%)

me+LIVING

My Views

Total votes: 3653 Always have an opinion. Share yours on our fun staff polls on http://mysinghealth

Prof Ang Chong Lye

me+LIVING

Assistant CEO (Clinical Service), SingHealth and CEO, SGH, on running an organisation and his love for soccer.

26

Prof Ang Chong Lye running the SingHealth crosscountry at Marina Promenade on 19 May 2007.

His team came in third place in the Men’s Veteran category.

A good team manager is focused and gains respect from team members.

Respect cannot be forced. In order to prove ourselves in the battlefield as a team, we need a “can-do” spirit that allows us to come from a position of strength and engineer our success.

Running an organisation like SingHealth or SGH requires teamwork.

Healthcare is very complex. In order to have a reasonable outcome, many different parties have to do their part

appropriately and accurately. You need to position people at the right place.

As in a soccer match, there are periods of highs and lows in all we do. The highs are packed with action and achievements. The lows, in turn, provide for reflection and introspection.

Leaders have to set long term goals, because even the slightest change takes time to implement. In order to inspire people, we need to build a wonderful organisation. Our key performance indicator (KPI) should be to have a smiley face at work because healthcare is essentially a service-oriented industry.

Prof Ivy Ng

DCEO, SingHealth and CEO, KKH, on building a strong group identity and teamwork.

The way ahead is exciting and we are at an opportune time.

MOH has articulated the vision for SingHealth to be a leader in academic medicine; integrating clinical service, research and education.

In SingHealth, we have individual entities working alongside one another to achieve a long term goal. In order to do that, each entity has to internalise a common vision. People need to see where we’re going as a group and ask themselves: “How does what I do today make a difference in patient care?”

I think our staff motto “Patients. At the Heart of All We Do” represents the motivation behind our work. Healthcare is a team game. We all have distinct roles and the key is to focus on what our role is.

SingHealth Leaders

on the Spirit of Sportsmanship

Therefore when a goal is scored in any game, it can be likened to the final delivery of care that a patient receives in the form of a medical consultation. The whole system must work together across all touch points. We’ve scored ourselves a goal when a patient leaves us feeling and knowing that his needs have been met and taken care of.

me+SH meets up with our leaders as they share their insights on sports, teamwork and SingHealth.

Prof Ivy Ng at the SingHealth Sports Club inter-institution cross country cum family fun Walk-a-Jog on 7 June 2008.

Assistant CEO (Research and Education), SingHealth and Director, NCCS, on his interests which include strategising on how to ‘break into the premiere division’ in the areas of research and education.

Prof Soo Khee Chee and a Dogtooth Tuna which he released after the photo was taken.

Prof Donald Tan

Medical Director, SNEC, on how individuals should come together to ensure a team’s success.

We are re-looking at the national role we play for Singapore and hope to be one of the top centres for eye care and research regionally and internationally. We want to build ourselves to be like the National Eye Institute (NEI) in the US and become the NEI of the region.

As for running an organisation, it can be compared to a group marathon. Being a marathon runner myself, this comparison epitomises my Team SNEC concept, incorporating both slow and fast runners and the fact that we’re in it for the long haul. It is a cooperative effort.

I’ve put into place a seven-member strategic leadership committee

I enjoy soccer and fishing. They are very different sports: One is contemplative while the other requires teamwork and when it comes to running an organisation, you need a balance of both.

In terms of research and education, Singapore is, in essence, punching above its weight class. We are like a second division team trying to break into a premiere division. Nobody owes Singapore a living and we have to do a lot to remain competitive.

Investment is required if you want to play in the premiere league.

Once we have broken into the premiere division, we need continued

where mid- to long-term plans on clinical care, research and education are discussed in a transparent and consultative manner. This is done in concurrence with other doctors and inculcates a feeling of belonging to the organisation.

If the key here is team approach, I would like to use another sporting analogy, that is, rugby. The cooperation factor in this game is great. It’s not about personal glory, but scoring goals for the team. We can learn something from both sports. In terms of marathon running, it’s about personal dedication and endurance.

As for rugby, it’s about collective teamwork and cooperation.

Prof Donald Tan ran the Standard Chartered Singapore Marathon in 2006.

He continues to be an avid long-distance runner.

investments in order to stay there.

Having a healthy mix of foreign talent as well as our own homegrown talent helps. Using the soccer analogy, foreign talent will not play for you in the World Cup. Ultimately, the people who will ensure our survival will be our local talent, so we need to nurture them.

How do we then entice them to go into clinical research? Firstly, our HR platform has to support research.

Secondly, we have to provide them with the right infrastructure to practise in. My priority will be to see improvements in these two areas.

The most important goal for NCCS and SingHealth is to keep talent within the Campus. Following that, we must ensure that we have a seamless integration with DUKE-NUS Graduate Medical School so that it becomes a means of talent retention for us. Next, we need to create a whole scholarship environment to encourage overseas Singaporean talent to return.

me+LIVING

Prof Soo KHee Chee

27

me+LIVING 28

Speed racer Get behind the open wheel of a go-kart, feel the rubber burn on this small and simple four-wheeled vehicle, and race around a scaled-down circuit.

Welcome to Kart World Pte Ltd which opened Singapore’s first permanent go-kart track in 1997. Designed with safety in mind, the track boasts run-off grass areas which are supported by energy absorbing tire walls, similar to the ones found in Formula 1™ races around the world. They also provide karts specially designed for children ages seven to nine, making Kart World a wonderful destination for the whole family.

Kart World Pte Ltd Yung Ho Road, Jurong (open field behind

Extreme

Family

Fun!

Bored of the usual family outing? Looking for some adrenaline pumping action? We’ve got just the adventure for you as we take a ride on the wild side with me+SH. Surf’s up Ride the surface of the water on your wakeboard as the boat pulls you along. Wakeboarding was developed from a combination of water skiing, snowboarding and surfing techniques. If you’re new at this, let Extreme Sports & Marketing’s training centre provide you with professional instructions on wakeboarding and waterskiing for all levels from beginners to competitors.

Kentucky Fried Chicken outlet) Tel: 62662555 Open: 11:00am-10:00pm (Tue-Sun) Closed on Mondays (except public holidays) Website: www.kartworld.com.sg

Extreme Sports & Marketing No. 10 Stadium Lane Tel: 63448813 Open: 12:00pm-7:00pm(Tue-Fri) 9:00am-7:00pm (Sat, Sun & public holidays) Closed on Mondays (except public holidays) By reservation only.

Website: www.extreme.com.sg

Sky high Not for the faint hearted! The G-Max Reverse Bungy, designed in New Zealand, lifts people to a height of 40m, and then releases them to free-fall before slicing through the sky, arcing up and over the Singapore River at over 125 km per hour like a giant pendulum.

The G-force experienced is similar to those felt by astronauts. Five people can have a go at being Superman at any one time.

G-Max Reverse Bungy Clarke Quay, 3E River Valley Road (nearest MRT: Clarke Quay Station.

Exit by Eu Tong Sen Street and turn left to cross the Coleman Bridge) Open: 1:00pm-1:00am (Mon-Thur) 1:00pm-2:00am (Friday) 12:00pm-2:00am (Saturday) 12:00pm-1:00am (Sunday) Website: www.gmax.com.sg

me+LIVING

Sweat it ut

Rock and Roll-ers

29

F

eel the adrenaline rush as you glide around like a free spirit. Roller blading is such an exhilarating sport that combines fun and fitness that the NHC roller blading team has been training more than 60 staff and family members from NHC and SNEC since 2007. Classes are held once a week at the Bowyer Block and there’s even leisure skating on weekends at East Coast Park. Regardless of age and gender, anyone can attend a blading session as long as you have the enthusiasm. A team of dedicated and qualified instructors are at hand to individually guide participants on their first day. They will not only teach basic methods of skating, balancing and proper ‘fall’ techniques, but also how to wear safety helmets, elbow and knee guards. Everyone looks out for one another and it is this teamwork and family camaraderie that bring out the joys of blading.

For more information, contact Ms Noor Hudayah Bte Mohd Ariff, Multimedia Specialist, NHC at noor_hudayah@nhc.com.sg.

Photo Credit: www.gardenia.com.sg

Fun Food To Go Want a healthy tasty snack in 5 minutes?

Dietician Tan Shiling from KKH Department of Nutrition and Dietetics, shares with us a fun food recipe that is guaranteed to satisfy the taste buds of both young and old alike.

Bananas-On-Toast (Serves 1)

Ingredients: 2 slices of white bread 1 banana (medium sized), thinly sliced 3 pieces of pitted prunes, chopped 1 teaspoon of maple syrup or honey

Method: 1. Place banana slices on white bread.

2. Garnish with chopped prunes, then drizzle with maple syrup or honey.

3. Place in toaster oven for about three minutes or until bananas are just soft. Serve immediately.

Nutrient Analysis:

Energy (kcal) Protein (g) Total Fat (g) Carbohydrate (g) Dietary Fibre (g)

Per Serving

220 7 1 48 3.9

me+SMILES

The

Lighter Side

Keeping The (Medicine) Ball Afloat

OOps...did I say that?

Bloopers made by sports commentators that they wish they could take back.

30 Grand Prix Race Announcer: “The lead car is absolutely, truly unique, except for the one behind it which is exactly identical to the one in front of the similar one in the back.”

Greg Norman, pro golfer: “I owe a lot to my parents, especially my mother and father.”

Ringside boxing analyst: “Sure there have been injuries and even some deaths in boxing – but none of them really that serious.”

And in football...

Well, it’s Liverpool two, Ipswich nil; and if the score stays this way, I’ve got to fancy Liverpool for the win.

If the ball had gone in, it would definitely have been a goal.

I am a firm believer that if one team scores a goal, the other needs to score two to win.

If a team scores early on, it often takes an early lead.

Source: http://www.ahajokes.com/spo08.html

Artist: Dr Andrew B.G. Tay, NDC

Sports Commentator: “...and the medical leaders are head to head in the game as they pass their leadership balls to the next in line, including an eyeball from Prof Ang to Prof Tan.” Everything In Moderation Some members of a health club were having their first meeting. The director of the group said, “Now, I’d like each one of you to give the facts of your daily routine.”

Several people spoke, admitting their excesses, and then one obviously overweight member said, “I eat moderately, I drink moderately, and I exercise frequently.”

“Hmm...” said the manager, “and are you sure you having nothing else to add?”

“Well, yes,” said the member, “I lie extensively.”

Seen At… Who has big eyes, a luscious long neck and loves to see patients? If you’ve been hanging around KKH trying to sneak a peek, you would probably have met a member of KKH’s Diagnostic Imaging Department – our beautiful… portable X-Ray machine. Sporting brown spots and big eyes, the hospital’s portable X-Ray machine dons a giraffe motif on its long neck. “Anything to make it less frightening and imposing,” says Mr Charles Chan Ban Kee, Senior Manager of Diagnostic Imaging, KKH. Now you know who to look for at KKH the next time you need someone who can see right through you.

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

EXEMPLARY ATTITUDES “I would like to express my sincere thanks to A/Prof Colin Song (Department of Plastic Reconstructive and Aesthetic Surgery, SGH) and the staff of SGH Block 6 for their hospitality, guidance and help. I am very grateful for their professional care during the second operation of my eye, which was a great success. I will strongly recommend my colleagues, friends and relatives to Dr Song and his team and hope that other doctors and medical staff will follow their example.

Once again, Dr Song, my heartfelt thanks to you and all those who gave me the utmost care.”

CP

BEYOND THE CALL OF DUTY “I am very impressed with the level of service standards provided by the hospital staff at KKH. Kudos to the doctors from the orthopaedic surgical ward as well as Dr Lee who was on night duty on 5 August 2006 and who personally accompanied us to the ward in the wee hours of the morning. Special thanks goes to Dr Kevin Lim Boon Leong who operated on my daughter, and whose advice and comfort during this period were a great reassurance to my entire family.”

A grateful parent Note: Dr Kevin Lim won the Public Service Star at the PS21 Service Star Award. Find out more on page 6.

me @ SingHealth

me+SH: What is the first thing you think of when you wake up?

Ng Chai Lee (NCL): How lucky I am to be in good health.

I feel glad to be able to go to work and be the first person to arrive at SHP – Marine Parade to open the shutters and doors, smile and greet patients when giving the registration numbers to them.

Mr Ng Chai Lee, 61, Record Keeper at SHP – Marine Parade

He’s A Jolly Good Fellow How does Ng Chai Lee, first runner-up of Singapore’s Happiest Person 2008 keep the blues at bay? me+SH finds out his secret to being happy.

me+SH: Describe your recipe for happiness?

NCL: Live a simple and affordable lifestyle; spend within your means.

Face life or any problem positively.

If someone makes you angry, just walk away for a while to cool down, then come back to the person and smile again.

Be thoughtful and kind to family, friends, people of all races, the elderly, the handicapped and even people you’ve just met.

Do community service.

Throw away negative thoughts.

Be contented with what you are blessed with.

Keep smiling.

me+SMILES

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 such heroes.

31

me+HORIZON

“People who work together will win, whether it be against complex football defences, or the problems of modern society.” ~Vince Lombardi (1913-

This Quarter

In History

32

1970), American football coach and national symbol of single-minded determination to win.

PAVING THE WAY FORWARD

In recent years...

12 September 2003

25 July 2000

The new Changi Sports Medicine Centre at CGH, a multidisciplinary sports centre in Singapore, was officially opened.

The NNI building located at Jalan Tan Tock Seng was officially opened by then Minister for Health Mr Lim Hng Kiang.

From not too long ago...

July 1997

NCCS was conferred status of a national specialist centre with its own Board of Directors.

Domiciliary Delivery Service was introduced at KKH. Women who had received antenatal care at the hospital were given an option of a hospital or “home” delivery, after assessment of the suitability of their homes for delivery. The “home” service saw the delivery of its first baby in September.

August 1955

POUNDING THE TREADMILL

Healthcare and sports come full circle

1817

Sir William Cubitt, eminent British civil engineer and millwright, first invented the treadmill (aka treadwheels) as a method of reforming prison offenders.

1952

The first medical treadmill designed to diagnose heart and lung disease was invented by Dr Robert Bruce and Wayne Quinton at the University of Washington.

1968

Dr Kenneth Cooper’s research on the benefits of aerobic exercise, published in 1968, provided a medical argument to support the commercial development of the home treadmill and exercise bike.

Source: www.wikipedia.com

Upcoming Events 1

August

8 September 6-9 October

SingHealth Nurse’s Day Outram Campus Celebration (Check out an amazing treat for all our nurses on the back cover!)

International Physiotherapy Day SingHealth Leadership Series with Distinguished Visitor Dr James Mongan of Partners Healthcare

15 November President’s Challenge Healthcare, I Care Day

Have a trivia to share?

Write in to me.sh@singhealth. com.sg and see your contributions in me+SH.

Your

Q THIS ISSUE’S QUIZ:

1. What is the theme for this year’s GCEO Excellence Awards celebration?

2. Which Nobel Laureate did SingHealth host on 5 and 6 May? 3. How many times do endorphin levels rise when we are running?

opinion?

Photo Credit: Singapore Flyer Pte Ltd

Please email your answers to me.sh@singhealth.com.sg by 31 August 2008. One lucky winner will receive a pair of flight tickets to the Singapore Flyer worth $59, sponsored by Singapore Flyer Pte Ltd.

Have an

We want to hear from you!

Singapore Flyer - Ride the World’s Largest Giant Observation Wheel

C!Section has evolved! Have an opinion about our revamp? Tell us how you feel about me+SH, the magazine for all SingHealth Staff.

Here are the answers to the last ISSUE’S quiz: Q1 Who did we feature as our International Medical Graduate?

Ans: Dr Pearlie Tan Woon Woon, Department of Hand Surgery, SGH.

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.

Q2

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

Ans: More than 180 sets.

And the winners are...

Benny Eng Guan Chong, Administrative Executive, SHP Mary Louis Rajanayagam, Senior Dental Surgery Assistant, NDC Ong Seow Wei, Senior Medical Technologist, NHC

All winners will receive a Golden Village gift card worth $28.

Congratulations!

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 Check out me+SH online for more news and promotions. Just log onto at

http://mysinghealth/Singhealth/MeSH/

me+SH presents a special promotion with Persimmon.

Special Set Lunch

For the month of August, all SingHealth nurses will receive exclusive deals at Persimmon.

Sweet treats to express our appreciation for your dedication in putting patients at the heart of all you do!

PLUS Vouchers that truly Pamper!

• Starter + Dessert = $12 • Main Course + Dessert = $15 • Starter + Main Course + Dessert = $20

• • • •

Foot Reflexology Body Massage Manicure and Pedicure

AND MORE!

And if you visit Persimmon from 1 to 8 August 2008, you’ll be treated to a Dessert Trolley Delight • FREE FLOW of desserts from the cart

S

parkle on, SingHealth nurses!

Just show up at

Persimmon in your dazzling uniform, or show your staff pass, name tag and My me+SH privilege card.

The Link Hotel, 50 Tiong Bahru Road, #01-07 62272271 11:00 am-11:00 pm Nearest MRT: Tiong Bahru and Outram Park Bus services: 5 , 16, 33, 63, 123, 175 and 195 For more details on this promotion, please visit http://mysinghealth/me+SH/contestsandpromotions/ persimmon