Published04 Jan 2022

How would you introduce yourself?

I am a Taiwanese born doctor who grew up in New Zealand and completed my specialist training as a gastroenterologist. I have great interest in liver diseases and have done a lot of research in this area. I would describe myself as a profes. sional doctor with a good sense of humour to ensure patients do not feel too tense during the consultation, and yet still get the care and attention they need.

Why did you choose Singapore to practice medicine?

I came to Singapore with my family previously as tourists. We really loved the climate, the people and the food. It is enjoyable to live in this vibrant metropolitan city.

What's your specialty and why did you choose it?

I am a gastroenterologist, which means I look after conditions of the digestive system (liver, intestines, stomach, and pancreas). I am passionate about Gastroenterology because I really enjoyed the pace and the intellect required for this specialty, in addition, I really enjoy doing endoscopy to make diagnoses and treat the underlying condition.

What’s the best part of your career?

It gets better and better every year. So far, one of my career highlights is when I obtained doctoral degree (Doctor of Medicine) in liver research, in Chinese University of Hong Kong.

What’s your least favourite part of your career?

Can’t think of any 😊

What are some of the biggest challenges you've faced and obstacles you've had to overcome?

One of the ‘memorable’ challenges was getting my liver patient with terminal cancer to be able to see his child getting married as his final wish, before he passes on. Psychologically and emotionally, it was really tough for me to deal with in the last few months of his life journey, yet, it will fulfilling to know this caring father was able to have his one last wish come true.

Have you found anything particularly helpful in your journey to where you are today?

My faith helps me through the good times and the bad. I console to finding solutions and support through prayers during these situations. My family has always been there being my rock and my support.

What do you recommend students entering medical school?

For students wanting to be doctors, I would highly recommend them doing grassroots type charity work in non-profitable organisations, travelling overseas for medical mission work, learn and do something totally different outside medicine for 3-6 months to gain insights on societal inequalities, cultural differences, and humanitarian issues. These will help future doctors solve problems with better perspective, learning more about life values and ethics.

What do you do for fun?

My fun times nowadays include taking kids around Singapore for kids-related activities. Otherwise, I like to listen to Jazz music with friends over a small drink or watching movies with family.