Khoo Teck Puat Hospital

26/12/2025

𝗜𝗻 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀

What do succulents and geriatric patients have in common? Both demonstrate strength when given the right support.

For Dr Grace Lim, this is not just a metaphor. It is a philosophy that guides her work. Succulents survive heat, dry spells and rocky soil with quiet resilience, much like the patients she cares for as a consultant geriatrician at KTPH. Tending to a collection of succulents on her desk has become more than just a hobby. The careful attention she gives each plant mirrors her approach to geriatric medicine – patiently supporting each patient with thoughtfulness and respect for their resilience.

Dr Lim has been caring for geriatric patients since 2015, focusing on trauma geriatrics, perioperative medicine, falls and osteoporosis care. What draws her to the specialty is the opportunity to care for patients holistically. As she puts it, “Geriatric medicine allows me to care for patients with real complexity while making a meaningful difference in their quality of life.”

Her days often begin with ward rounds, working closely with nurses, therapists, dietitians, and social workers. Watching her move through the ward, her philosophy becomes evident. She speaks gently, adjusts her pace, and gives her full attention to each patient, even when language barriers exist. Her genuine care is immediately apparent to patients. Between patient interactions, she guides junior team members and students through the nuances of geriatric assessment, weaving teaching naturally into patient care. On other days, she runs outpatient clinics or supports surgical planning for geriatric patients.

Geriatric care goes beyond treating disease alone. It considers how medical conditions interact with frailty, cognition, and social circumstances. “Geriatric care is about understanding the whole person,” she explains, “and tailoring treatment to what is realistic, meaningful and safe.”

One patient from the COVID-19 period left a lasting impression. An 82-year-old woman presented with what was described as “functional decline”. Severe anaemia had gradually confined her to her home, and over weeks, she became unable to get out of bed or even stay awake to feed herself. Once someone who spent her time making handicrafts, she had lost the ability to do what once gave her purpose.

Through blood tests, scans, and referrals, she was diagnosed with a rare mixed connective tissue disease. Months later, she returned to the clinic able to stand, walk and care for herself again. She brought along a ribbon handicraft she had made. Dr Lim keeps the handicraft as a reminder that decline is not always inevitable. This experience reinforced her belief that “with the right assessment and support, many geriatric patients regain function and independence.”

For Dr Lim, being in good hands means knowing care is guided by both expertise and intention, that someone is thinking not just about treatment, but about life beyond the hospital. Like the succulents she tends, many of her patients face layered challenges. With patience, time and the right support, they continue to grow in ways that matter.

25/12/2025

From all of us at Khoo Teck Puat Hospital, may this festive season bring you cherished moments with loved ones, good health, and happiness that lasts well into the new year! 🎄✨❤️

22/12/2025

Think Speech Therapy is just about talking? Think again! 🗣️✨

From first word to last bite, our Speech Therapist Hannah Chung shows that her work goes far beyond speech, caring for patients with both communication and swallowing difficulties.

Her “office” looks a little different than what you might expect: she uses X-rays and scopes to see exactly what’s happening when you swallow, and she’s basically a professional food critic, testing textures to keep patients safe. 🍴🧪

Whether it’s strengthening swallowing muscles or helping patients find their voice, our Speech Therapy team is here to help!

19/12/2025

𝗜𝗻 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀

“We don’t only do registrations, we are also negotiators and planners.”

That is the perspective of Danny Quek, a 43-year-old Patient Service Associate Executive at KTPH, who shows that solving problems at the hospital counter requires more than just typing names. While many assume his work is strictly clerical, Danny sees himself navigating complex emotional and administrative situations daily, constantly striving to "work towards a win-win scenario."

This solution-focused mindset proves essential when dealing with patients who are stressed or demanding. He recalls stepping in when an elderly, wheelchair-bound husband and his wife arrived frantic, out of medication and convinced they’d lost an NRIC at the counter. Danny personally intervened, juggling their multiple needs simultaneously: clearing a private area for the search, helping file a report, and guiding the couple to the clinic and pharmacy to secure the medication. A week later, he learnt the wife was “very appreciative of the assistance” he had rendered to her.

Danny doesn't leave that problem-solving drive at the counter. With a prior foundation in engineering, his hobby is building Star Wars dioramas, a process greatly enhanced by his interest in 3D printing. He believes that 3D printing, which he uses to scratch-build models, is "very similar to creating something from nothing." For Danny, this technology is powerful because it "gives more options when it comes to resolving issues," mirroring the complex negotiations he conducts daily.

He has since integrated this engineering passion into the hospital environment. He created models like a stationery holder shaped like an MRI machine and a remote holder resembling a CT machine. From there, he progressed to printing scaled models of the scanning machines for recruitment drives and a 1/12 scale CT machine that was successfully auctioned at the hospital’s Dinner and Dance event last month. When asked if the models have helped his job, his answer is immediate and personal: "Yes, as I brought smiles to those who received them."

17/12/2025

💊 Taking multiple medications? You’re not alone — a simple review could make all the difference.

One in three older Singaporeans takes five or more medications daily. For many, managing these complex regimens becomes overwhelming, especially when language barriers or confusion come into play.

In this commentary, Ms Low Suat Fern, Head of Pharmacy and Principal Clinical Pharmacist (Specialist), shares why regular medication reviews are essential.

Take Mr Chua’s story, for example. He was taking duplicate medications without realising it, skipping doses because he didn’t understand their purpose, and continuing outdated dosages his doctor had already changed.

After a professional medication review, three medications were stopped and two were adjusted. The result? Better health and a better quality of life.

Consider a medication review if you or your loved ones:
1️⃣ See multiple doctors or specialists
2️⃣ Experience new symptoms like dizziness, confusion, or unusual fatigue
3️⃣ Find it difficult to keep track of medications
4️⃣ Use supplements or traditional remedies alongside prescriptions

研究显示，同时服用五种或以上的药物会显著增加年长者的健康风险，例如跌倒、虚弱、残疾，甚至死亡。我国许多年长者都面临这些风险：65岁及以上的年长人士当中，三分之一每天服用多种药物。

16/12/2025

Healthcare workers show up every day with dedication, professionalism and care, even when faced with abuse and harassment.

In this CNA commentary, Prof Chua Hong Choon, CEO of KTPH and YCH, reflects on his own experience as a junior doctor and highlights a sobering reality: nearly one in three healthcare professionals in Singapore witnesses or experiences abuse weekly.

Yet, he also reminds us why many continue to serve. It is the meaning they find in caring for others, and the kindness shown by patients and caregivers, even in difficult moments.

At our hospitals, we have adopted the “3Rs” framework to protect our frontline teams: Recognise early signs of abuse, Respond to de-escalate situations, and Report all incidents so action can be taken.

As Prof Chua puts it, “There is, and never will be, an excuse to abuse those who dedicate themselves to healing others.”

Creating safer healthcare environments is a shared responsibility, one that involves healthcare professionals, patients and caregivers alike, grounded in mutual respect, empathy and kindness. 🤝

Healthcare professionals have stepped up in the face of overwhelming demands, but resilience should never be mistaken as tolerance for abuse, says hospital CEO Chua Hong Choon.

15/12/2025

San San Win Thant, a senior staff nurse at Yishun Community Hospital, was featured on CNA938 discussing her recognition at the Healthcare Humanity Awards 2025! 🎉

San San was among 17 individuals from NHG Health who were recognised for their compassion-driven excellence in Singapore's public healthcare system. Known for her positive attitude and dedication to patient care, San San even learnt Mandarin from her patients and colleagues to better connect with them.

Catch her radio interview to hear more about her inspiring work:

NHG Health recently honoured 17 individuals and 6 teams at the Healthcare Humanity Awards 2025 — recognising compassion-driven excellence across Singapore’s public healthcare system. Hui Wong speaks with two of this year’s standout recipients, Woodlands Health’s Senior Art Therapist, Roxanne

12/12/2025

𝗜𝗻 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀

“When patients start improving, you can see the signs — maybe they can walk again or smile more often — seeing that is priceless.” For Samillano Reynalyn Lising, these moments of breakthrough make those challenging days worthwhile.

At 39, Reynalyn has spent the past four years as a Senior Care Support Associate at Yishun Community Hospital, but her journey into healthcare began with a childhood dream. "I always dreamt of becoming a nurse when I was young,” she recalls. “But due to personal circumstances, I had to give up that dream.” However, her passion for caring for others never wavered, eventually leading her to a career where she could still make a meaningful difference in people’s lives.

“I've always enjoyed helping others, especially the elderly. I used to take care of my own family members, and that inspired me to join healthcare,” she shares. Though her path took a different turn than originally planned, her calling to care for others remained strong.

Her typical day starts with receiving patient handovers from the previous shift, then diving into the hands-on work of helping patients with daily activities like feeding, bathing, and mobility support. But Reynalyn's role goes far beyond basic caregiving. “We help patients with daily activities, but more importantly, we encourage them to do as much as they can on their own. It might be something small like walking a few more steps each day or eating by themselves. Supporting them through these small wins really helps them regain confidence and independence.”

Drawing from her previous personal and professional caregiving experiences, Reynalyn brings valuable skills in working with diverse populations and staying calm under pressure. These qualities have made her a natural mentor to newer team members. “What I find particularly fulfilling is watching new team members gain confidence when they know they have support — seeing them flourish in their roles is truly rewarding.”

One patient story particularly stands out for Reynalyn: “There was one patient who was very withdrawn after a stroke. He had left-sided weakness and difficulty moving around. We encouraged and motivated him every day during therapy, and over time, he started talking and moving more. Seeing him smile and thank us on the day of his discharge — that moment really stayed with me.”

The work isn’t without its challenges. Communication barriers with anxious or uncooperative patients require creativity and compassion. “I overcome this by staying calm and empathetic, and finding alternative ways to communicate, such as using gestures, visual aids, or seeking translation help when needed. Building trust with patients is key.”

Reynalyn is passionate about changing perceptions of her profession. “Some people think our job is just basic caregiving, but there's so much more to it. We’re a key part of the care team. We observe patients closely, support therapists and nurses, and help create a positive environment for recovery. It’s both physically and emotionally demanding, but also very meaningful.”

To maintain balance, she prioritises family time, cooking, and movies on her days off. “It helps me unwind and come back to work feeling refreshed.”

Her advice for those considering a similar path? “If you have the heart for it and enjoy helping other people, this is a very meaningful job. It can be tough at times, but the rewards are worth it. Be open to learning, stay patient, and remember that even small acts of care can make a big difference to someone's life.”

10/12/2025

We are thrilled to share that we have achieved at least one year of restraint-free care across all five geriatric wards. This means no physical restraints such as body vests or limb restraints are used in our wards.

In clinical settings, restraints may be used to prevent falls or to stop patients from dislodging tubes or medical devices, particularly among seniors with cognitive impairment. While intended for safety, restraints can also cause distress or limit mobility.

At KTPH, our care model is grounded in the spirit of humanity and guided by Humanitude, a relationship-based approach that prioritises eye contact, touch, verbal reassurance and presence. With the support of pressure-sensor technology, meaningful engagements and activities as well as close family involvement, our elderly patients remain safe without restricting movement or autonomy, and the impact has been encouraging.

We have seen fewer refusals of care, calmer interactions, improved mobility and reduced staff burnout. Most importantly, our patients experience care that prioritises dignity, trust and human connection. 🤝

Building on this success, we plan to expand this person-centred approach to become a truly age-friendly hospital. Over the next three years, we will introduce Humanitude to 10 non-geriatric wards to better support patients aged 65 and above, who make up a significant portion of admissions.

To better support elderly patients, Khoo Teck Puat Hospital will stop the use of physical restraints at more wards over the next three years. The hospital saw lower levels of burnout among staff and heightened cooperation from patients since this approach was introduced a year ago. More than 500 per...

08/12/2025

When the song isn’t on Spotify… but our nurses already know every beat.💃🕺

These are the sounds we know by heart, because they're part of the care we give every day. 🫶

05/12/2025

𝗜𝗻 𝗚𝗼𝗼𝗱 𝗛𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘀

If you were at KTPH's Dinner & Dance, you would have been mesmerised by the diabolo performance that had the entire room captivated. Sticks spinning through the air with remarkable precision, gravity-defying tricks flowing effortlessly from one to the next. Who would have thought the performer commanding the stage with such quiet confidence is the same dedicated nurse who spends his days providing comfort to patients in KTPH Ward B85?

Senior Staff Nurse Tan Ee Jing is one of those people whose hidden talents remind you just how extraordinary those caring for us can be. Describing himself as calm and cool, Ee Jing has been working at KTPH for the past year. Beneath his composed exterior is a passion for both healing and performance. His journey into nursing began with a practical mindset and a caring heart. "I have an interest in medical stuff and am more of a hands-on person," he explains. "And I can better take care of my parents in the future with the skills learnt in nursing." This blend of professional curiosity and filial devotion drives his daily work, where he finds the greatest reward in the appreciation from patients and their families.

One moment stays with him – when a patient's sister expressed such heartfelt gratitude for his care of her critically ill brother that she wanted to treat him to dinner. "She said I took good care of her brother who passed away eventually," Ee Jing recalls.

His diabolo journey began with a chance encounter when he was 16. "I was inspired by someone performing diabolo during a school CCA session. It looked cool when he did tricks," he recalls. That moment sparked a determination to master the art himself. He started learning from YouTube videos, teaching himself the basics through countless hours of practice. "I was inspired by Japanese professional players’ techniques, so I tried to learn more advanced techniques from them," he explains. In his younger years, he practised three to four hours a week. As his skills improved, he began working towards competitions, eventually creating his own tricks and learning from international players. At the recent Dinner & Dance, he stunned colleagues with an impressive performance. "I would like to show my skills and talent to everyone because this is not commonly seen here," he says.

For Ee Jing, diabolo is more than just a hobby. "To me, it is a continuous challenge. Each new trick demands patience, precision, and persistence. I enjoy the process of struggling with something difficult and then finally breaking through. That sense of progress is what makes diabolo meaningful for me." The connection between diabolo and nursing might not be immediately obvious, but for Ee Jing, the parallels are clear. "Fine motor control and deliberate technique in diabolo require the same kind of steady hands and careful technique when inserting IV plugs or drawing blood," he explains. Both demand calmness under pressure, situational awareness, and the understanding that practice makes precision. While he admits that handling medical emergencies is more nerve-wracking than performing in front of crowds, the skills transfer seamlessly between his artistic and professional pursuits.

When he's not caring for patients or perfecting diabolo tricks, Ee Jing embraces adventure with the same quiet determination he brings to his work. His interests include travelling around the world, thrilling activities like paragliding, and hiking mountains.

04/12/2025

It has come to our attention that there is a website impersonating as the official Admiralty Medical Centre (AdMC) website. We have made a police report and are working with the relevant agencies to block access to the website.

The official URL for AdMC is https://www.ktph.com.sg/admiralty-medical-centre. We advise members of the public to stay vigilant and avoid clicking on links from unverified sources. Practise discretion when sharing sensitive personal details online. Thank you.