A Career Carved in Time

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More than 250 colleagues were honoured at the recent SCH Long Service Award, themed "Stars of SCH". The shiniest star of all? Our very own Chief Allied Health Professional, Adj A/Prof Tan Bee Yee who dedicated 30 years of service to public healthcare!


A Physiotherapist by training, Bee Yee started her career in Singapore General Hospital in 1994. Her time in SingHealth has seen her in the wards for patient care to teaching, doing research, and finally joining management.

Bee Yee joined SCH as a member of the pioneer team. Starting a hospital from scratch is a rare opportunity and Bee Yee is glad to have experienced it not once but thrice with SKCH, OCH and ECH.

Over the decades, a lesson from a patient remains etched in her mind. Bee Yee had prepared the rehabilitation equipment needed but the patient asked to retrieve something from her drawer. "She said: 'I need to put on the lipstick to look good for my first walk after surgery," said Bee Yee, who realised that what is important to healthcare professionals may not matter as much to patients. "And it is what matters to them that is going to motivate them to take that step towards recovery."

Bee Yee pointed out that most people join healthcare to help people and that is very true because in this industry, we can impact someone's wellbeing in the most direct way. "You can help people in many other jobs but in healthcare, this is where it is real," she said. Realising this is what can "help you stay in this career, for the long haul."


THE SECRET FORMULA
Other recipients of the 20-year Long Service Award spill the secret formula behind their long-standing career in public healthcare.
 
"I enjoy work because of the supportive environment and my fun-loving colleagues that I have the privilege of working alongside."
Senior Staff Nurse Tan Poh Geok, whose colleagues call her "Poh Ghee" (meaning handsome in Tagalog), a nickname suggesting the light-hearted bonds formed with colleagues across different cultures.

"I find that the camaraderie during events like townhall sessions strengthen workplace bonds."
Daniel Sim, Senior Associate, Pharmacy attributes his longevity to the hospital's nurturing atmosphere and the strong bond he has with his colleagues.

"Listening to my patients' stories helps me understand their needs better and to approach my work with a positive attitude."
For Senior Staff Nurse Irene Balaino Baguilat, the magic lies in the moments of human connection. Patient interactions brighten her day and knowing them as individuals motivates her to provide person-centred care.

"Through empathy and showing understanding, I can not only diffuse the situation but also form an unexpected friendship with my patients and caregivers."
Ong Leng San, Manager of the Office of Patient Experience, is motivated to achieve positive outcomes from challenging situations, and stays connected to caregivers even after discharge.

"I feel motivated when I see a smile on my patients' face and their thumbs up when they are being discharged."
Senior Enrolled Nurse Ching Hock Hai looks forward most to patients recovering well and feeling joy at discharge.

"I find great joy in seeing my patients recover and return home in good health."
Nurse Clinician Song Xiaoyuan reveal that the secret formula lies in the profound satisfaction of making a difference in patients' lives.