To commence the Future of…Centenary Speaker Series, The Institute hosted an insightful discussion with panel speakers Dr Gavin O’Neill and Dr Zubin Daruwalla. The traditional and alternative pathways in medicine, the latest trends in MedTech and the importance of patient-centred care were among the many topics explored in relation to our rapidly changing healthcare climate.
Opening the discussion, Dr O’Neill, an Orthopaedic Surgeon and Assistant Professor at the NUS School of Medicine, focused on the many improvements in the health industries over the last two decades, such as progress made in medical manufacturing, data organisation with electronic medical records as well as the treatment of Junior doctors by safeguarding their well being. The principle of Ikigai was also touched on; Dr O’Neill conveyed the importance of prospective medical students finding a balance between what they are passionate about, what the market needs and what they can be paid for. Dr. O’Neill also discussed the role of technology in the operating theatre, noting that manual dexterity remains essential, particularly when working with soft tissues rather than bones.
Dr Daruwalla, a Doctorpreneur, PwC Asia Pacific Health Industries Leader, Surgeon, and Tanglin Alumnus, articulated key points on the convergence of care ecosystems, emphasising that healthcare, MedTech, and Pharma can no longer function in isolation. He discussed the impact of artificial intelligence, big data, consumerism, and digitalisation (collectively called ABCD) on the health industries. He noted the potential of hologram technology and cautioned against focusing solely on flashy innovations without addressing foundational strategies that support healthcare delivery. Dr Daruwalla affirmed that technology should complement, not replace, the human elements of medical practice and that it is an enabler. People across all areas of health industries will need to embrace these advancements and be more collaborative to remain competitive.
Both doctors emphasised that while technology and AI can make certain processes quicker and more accurate in medical care, the patient-doctor relationship and element of human touch ultimately remain at the core of our healthcare system.
A standout point from the discussion was the advice on pathways into medicine. Both speakers encouraged an open-minded approach, with Dr O’Neill sharing how a simple suggestion from a Senior Surgeon he trained with led to his interest in 3D printing in orthopaedics. During the Q&A section, a point was also raised about the accessibility of medical innovation in less economically developed countries (LEDCs) and whether or not the future of healthcare only belongs to those who can afford it. Dr Daruwalla detailed how LEDCs are surprisingly at an advantage when it comes to integrating medical innovations into healthcare systems as they are more adaptable to new infrastructure instead of being fixed in medical traditions.
Finally, medical education was also discussed. Both doctors explained how medical schools often lack a business, economics, finance, and entrepreneurial perspective despite medical innovation being heavily industry-driven and how research should also be given greater importance in medical school, specifically research that focuses on ‘bench to bedside.’ Both doctors advised students to participate in or take courses in business, finance, economics, or entrepreneurship and pursue research opportunities at an earlier stage in their careers.
Overall, the talk provided valuable insights into current advancements and future improvements to come in healthcare. The discussion was particularly beneficial for students considering medical careers and offered clarity on healthcare's evolving direction. The speakers, echoing William Osler’s words, “The good physician treats a disease; the great physician treats the patient who has the disease,” emphasised the importance of a patient-centred approach amidst technological advancements.
We would like to extend a massive thank you to Dr O’Neill and Dr Daruwalla, as well as to Ms Brandon-King and Dr Hidden, for organising this enlightening event and providing a unique opportunity for all attendees.
Zyra, Niya & Ranpeng
Year 12 Student
