​At SingHealth Polyclinics (SHP), we have a community of passionate individuals whose dedication and talent are fundamental to our success.  As we navigate the ever-evolving healthcare landscape, we wish to recognise our Health Pals - a special group of staff who have been instrumental in helping us transform care delivery in our polyclinics.

Meet Muhammad Iman Bin Rahmat, the Health Pal who finds joy in patient interactions

When discussing Healthier SG (HSG), our national initiative on preventive care, Iman demonstrates exceptional knowledge and expertise. As a member of SHP's My Care Team, a multi-disciplinary care team that takes care of our HSG enrolled patients, he assists patients with HSG-related enquiries whilst coordinating their appointments and managing their preventive care needs.

Iman, a Health Pal of two years, at Tampines North Polyclinic

Fuelled by his desire to serve, Iman shares "I like that this role allows me to interact closely with patients, where we build connections, and that makes what I do even more meaningful."  Recalling a memorable experience, he fondly remembers a patient who was non-verbal and hearing impaired. "I immediately took out my mobile phone and we communicated by typing out our messages. The patient thanked me at the end of the day with the widest smile, and that made my day knowing I was able to help."

However, being a Health Pal has its challenges. With HSG's target audience being the older generation, many seniors struggle with using digital devices to check their laboratory results or make appointments. "I have to patiently guide them through these processes," Iman explains. "Being a male Health Pal presents additional challenges too, as female patients may not feel completely comfortable discussing certain screenings, such as mammograms or cervical pap smears with me."

Cindy Soong: The Health Pal with the contagious smile

Like Iman, Cindy's role requires her to ensure that HSG enrolled patients stay current with their screenings and vaccinations. She finds great satisfaction when patients seek her advice and enrol into the HSG with SHP. However, like her colleagues, Cindy faces her own set of challenges. "Some elderly patients do not understand what HSG is or may be hesitant about it, requiring patience and repeated explanations before they will consider enrolment."

Outside of work, Cindy devotes a considerable amount of time to volunteering. The same passion for helping others motivates her to become a Health Pal, where she advocates for the benefits of HSG enrolment.

Cindy, a Health Pal at Outram Polyclinic, has been with SHP for six years

"Many people don't realise that although I am a non-clinical staff, Health Pals are trained to do more than coordinate appointments and preventive care needs," Cindy explains. "We're equipped to clarify preventive care benefits and identify care gaps." These include health screenings and vaccinations, such as diabetic foot screening, colorectal, breast and cervical cancer screenings, as well as influenza and pneumococcal vaccinations.

Health Pal, Saburnisha Begam D/O Abdul Kader, explaining about the benefits of My Care Team to a patient at Outram Polyclinic

Health Pals play a vital role in supporting preventive care. To ensure excellence in their duties, they must complete a structured training programme specially curated by Dr Sally Ho, Senior Consultant, Family Physician at SingHealth Polyclinics. Prospective staff undergo an initial competency assessment, followed by further evaluation by doctors and nurses.

"While enrolment isn't mandatory, I strongly encourage those who are eligible but haven't enrol into HSG to take the first step in prioritising their health," says Cindy with her signature smile. "I hope to be a companion in my patients' health journey."

Begin your journey to good health with SHP! Find out how you can enrol into HSG by watching our step-by-step video guide today.

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