Part of the Health Insider series on POMConnect
As healthcare professionals, our daily routines serve as the foundation of our practice, shaping not only our professional efficacy but also our interactions with patients and colleagues alike. Join me as I take you through my typical workday, sharing tips garnered from my experience in the field of dermatology practice.
Starting the Day Right
My morning ritual begins with a cup of coffee—as this represents my moment of calm before the day starts. However, before the doors open for business, I prioritize reviewing medical reports and patient results with my staff. This ensures we’re all on the same page and ready to provide the best care from the moment our patients walk through the door.
Prioritize Feedback and Communication
One key task that remains at the forefront of my daily practice is addressing feedback. Whether it’s streamlining clinic workflows or promptly responding to patient inquiries, I believe feedback is integral to continuous improvement. Regular check-ins with staff help identify areas for improvement, while timely responses to patient queries help to develop trust and satisfaction.
Maintain Productivity and Wellness
Navigating the demands of a busy practice requires productivity and focus. I rely on a fundamental concept in medicine—the principle of triage. Remember that not everything laid in front of you requires the same level of attention. I decide which tasks are urgent and important. In addition, I ensure that I dedicate time for reflection and practise mindfulness, as I find that helps me to realign my focus.
Address Challenges with Compassion
Every healthcare professional faces challenges unique to their practice. From emotional fatigue to hectic schedules, these hurdles can take a toll on our mental and emotional well-being. Self-awareness and deliberate self-care practices are essential to mitigate these challenges. Taking moments to unplug and recharge not only rejuvenates the mind but also reinvigorates us to continue to provide compassionate patient care.
Navigate Difficult Patient Encounters
Encounters with emotionally distressed or difficult patients are inevitable in our line of work. In such moments, empathy and active listening become invaluable tools. By demonstrating genuine concern and providing a listening ear, we can effectively diffuse tension and establish rapport, paving the way for productive dialogue and optimal patient outcomes.
Embrace Technology and Sustainability
In today’s digital age, technology plays a pivotal role in streamlining practice management. Personally, I find simple tools like fitness trackers with built-in mindfulness apps invaluable for maintaining balance and focus throughout the day.
In terms of sustainability in clinical practice, one can start with taking simple measures like leveraging digitalization and reducing one’s overall carbon footprint. By digitizing paperwork and implementing measures to reduce plastic waste, we not only align with our ethical responsibilities but also reflect our commitment to environmental stewardship. However, it’s essential to recognize that you cannot measure what you don’t define. Therefore, setting objective targets and parameters that can be measured is crucial in ensuring the effectiveness of our sustainability efforts.
Thinking of Going into Private Practice?
To my fellow healthcare professionals embarking on their own professional journey, I offer this advice: Define your practice around values that resonate with you. Your authenticity and dedication will not only shape the culture of your practice but also resonate with your patients. Become a practice that you would trust and visit.
Closing the Day on a Positive Note
As the day draws to a close, I make it a point to express gratitude to my staff for their hard work and dedication. A simple word of thanks goes a long way in fostering camaraderie and mutual respect within the practice.
Our daily practices as healthcare professionals are more than just routines—they are reflections of our commitment to excellence, compassion, and continual growth. By embracing feedback, prioritizing wellness, and fostering meaningful connections with patients and colleagues alike, we can navigate the complexities of our profession with grace and purpose.
POMConnect would like to thank Dr Kok Wai Leong
for his invaluable insights and contribution to this article.
Dr Kok Wai Leong, MBBS, GDip (Occ Med), FAMS (Dermatology), is a Senior Consultant Dermatologist at StarMed Specialist Centre & Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre, catering to both paediatric and adult dermatology needs. He is an accredited dermatologist with a special interest in eczema, psoriasis, photodermatology, and skin cancers. His expertise extends to the treatment of difficult inflammatory and immunological skin conditions, utilizing biologic therapy and phototherapy, offering comprehensive care encompassing skin surgery, cosmetic, and laser procedures.
To connect with Dr Kok, please visit:
StarMed Specialist Centre
#05-01, 12 Farrer Park Station Road, Singapore 217565
Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre
#12-14, 3 Mount Elizabeth, Singapore 228510
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