At the Residency in SingHealth Excels (RiSE) Awards 2024, Asst Prof Jeffrey Lau, Senior Consultant from the Department of Cardiology, was honored with the Faculty Appreciation Award for Cardiology. 

 
(L-R): Prof Yeo Khung Keong, Chief Executive Officer, NHCS, and Asst Prof Jeffrey Lau (second from left) with trainees from the Cardiology Senior Residency Programme at Singapore Cardiac Society Annual Jeopardy Meeting. 

Besides being the Programme Director (PD) for Cardiology Senior Residency Programme since 2018, Asst Prof Lau plays an active role in developing the cardiology department at the upcoming Eastern General Hospital (EGH). He shares insights into the challenges and initiatives he saw through during his tenure as PD and his aspirations for cardiology at EGH.

What initial challenges did you face as Programme Director for Cardiology residency?

One of the biggest challenges at the beginning was believing that I was suitable for the job. Fortunately, the early transition was smooth with the tremendous support from my department and NHCS management. My predecessor, Prof Yeo Khung Keong, CEO and Senior Consultant from the Department of Cardiology, provided a thoughtful and detailed handover plan. Moreover, I had excellent programme executives, Shane Chew, and subsequently, Nai Rui Si. Above all, my trainees empowered me with their trust, for which I am most grateful.   

What changes have you witnessed or implemented during your tenure that enhanced the quality and depth of the programme? 

I led the programme from 2018 to 2024, meaning half of my tenure was during Covid-19. While the pandemic presented challenges, I believe life is about turning challenges into opportunities. For example,  we expanded the scope and duration of Senior Residents’ (SR) training at Sengkang General Hospital (SKH), with significant help from Asst Prof Chin Chee Yang, Senior Consultant from the Department of Cardiology, and Chairperson of the Programme Evaluation Committee (PEC). Now, the SKH rotation has become one of the most favoured among our SRs, offering flexibility to tailor the rotation to their individualised educational needs. 

During my time as PD, we also witnessed the initiation of cross-cluster rotation which provided our trainees the opportunity to learn from the different strengths of other cardiology departments in Singapore such as at National University Hospital (NUH) and Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH).  

Looking back at your time as Programme Director, what are you most proud of?

"Light shines brightest in darkness". My proudest contributions came when my SRs faced struggles, mostly in non-academic, personal matters. Those were the moments where we affirmed solidarity with them, stood by their side, comforted and guided them, ensuring they knew we wanted nothing but the best for them - they all emerged stronger and better!

How do you envision the future of cardiology training evolving in the next few years and what role do you see yourself playing?

The outlook for cardiology training in SingHealth is excellent. The programme directorship is in the capable hands of the current PD, Asst Prof Julian Loh, Senior Consultant from the Department of Cardiology, and guided by the steady and trustworthy Clinical Competency Committee (CCC) chairperson, Assoc Prof Chin Chee Tang, Senior Consultant from the Department of Cardiology, and PEC chairperson, Asst Prof Chin Chee Yang. As for me, I am ready to serve in whatever role I am called upon!

 
Asst Prof Jeffrey Lau (back row, second from right) with trainees at a laser tag team building event. 

What advice would you give to residents in the residency programme?

Have faith. 

You are all academically gifted but you may not yet know what your life’s calling – find it. When asked to take on something extra – do it.  Be happy and content, and remember that you never walk alone. In short, discover your "ikigai".  

You are actively involved in building up the cardiology arm at EGH. What does your role entail, and what are your primary goals and aspirations?

While there has certainly been considerable amount of paperwork, planning and meetings, that’s not what this job is truly about. I believe in my personal mission to create a thriving and sustainable department for my future fellow colleagues in EGH’s cardiology department. We are fortunate that in medicine, and particularly in cardiology, a sense of purpose is inherent in our jobs, as we get to help our patients in need. My aspiration for EGH’s cardiology department is that we not only excel in our work but also find personal fulfilment through it. I invite those of you who are interested to join this new and exciting venture – simply drop me an email or come have a chat with me!
 
Heartiest congratulations to Asst Prof Jeffrey Lau on his well-deserved recognition!