Why this radiation therapist goes the extra mile to deliver patient-centred care

Published on 24 October 2024

As a Senior Principal Radiation Therapist, Ms Yvonne Loh not only treats cancer patients but also builds meaningful connections with them, recognising the emotional challenges they face in their difficult circumstances.

Given the nature of her role, National University Cancer Institute, Singapore, (NCIS) Senior Principal Radiation Therapist Yvonne Loh has encountered numerous patients grappling with a range of emotional and physical challenges.

After all, cancer patients often face heightened anxiety, fear, and discomfort as they navigate their treatment journeys. The uncertainty surrounding their recovery only deepens their emotional turmoil, making it more challenging to support and connect with them effectively.

Yet this does not deter Yvonne from trying — and more often than not, succeeding.

With her bubbly personality, gentle demeanour, and infectious optimism, she fosters a welcoming environment that helps patients feel at ease.

Yvonne also has no hesitation in going the extra mile to make her patients' lives a little easier whenever she can. This might involve customising care to suit each individual, or rearranging appointments to accommodate patients with limited mobility, making it more convenient for them to attend treatment.

“It might sound cliché, but we genuinely want to serve our patients and provide the best care possible for those with cancer,” Yvonne shared.

“For me, the fulfilment comes from helping people. Of course, we have patients who are cooperative and others who can be more challenging, but we always strive to offer the best treatment and ensure safety, which is especially critical in radiation therapy.”

Unsurprisingly, over her 11 years at NCIS, Yvonne has touched the lives of countless patients, many of whom remember her long after their treatment ends and continue to express their gratitude and appreciation.

“We do have patients who recover and return for reviews or follow-ups, and they often come up to say hi or thank us,” Yvonne shared. “We're always happy to see them, and it’s gratifying to know they still remember us. It gives us a real sense of satisfaction and purpose, knowing that we’re making a difference in their lives.”

One patient who made a lasting impression on Yvonne stands out clearly in her memory.

“He was a patient I had previously treated... I saw him during his first course when he could still walk unassisted, right through to his third and final course when he was confined to a hospital bed,” a visibly emotional Yvonne recounted.

“One day, during our conversation, he showed me his diary. It detailed his experiences throughout his cancer treatment, from his first radiation session to his last. In that diary, he had written my name, marking me as part of his journey, and he expressed his thanks and gratitude for the care I provided, along with the rest of the team.”

Tragically, the patient eventually passed away. But his case continues to serve as a poignant reminder to Yvonne of the profound impact she can have on her patients.

This high level of commitment to patient-centred care is one of the reasons why Yvonne was recognised with the NUHS Allied Health Excellence Award this year.

Some of Yvonne’s other notable achievements in recent years include having a poster accepted by the European Society of Radiotherapy and Oncology (ESTRO) and the National Cancer Institute Annual Scientific Meeting titled 'A Pilot Initiative Using Telemedicine in Online Reviewing of Cone-Beam Computed Tomography for Stereotactic Radiation Therapy.' 

Additionally, she delivered an oral presentation at the Singhealth Duke-NUS Education Conference on 'Radiation Therapists' Perception on Conducting and Participating in Research: A Single Centre's Experience.’

Despite her numerous individual achievements, Yvonne emphasises that her success as a radiation therapist hinges on teamwork.

“It’s all about collaboration in radiation and oncology,” she explained. “We have a multidisciplinary team that includes radiation oncologists, radiation physicists, radiation therapists, radiation nurses, and essential support staff like receptionists and patient care assistants. To bring all these roles together, we rely on teamwork. Every session requires everyone to work in unison.” 

For Yvonne, who is currently pursuing her PhD in Synthetic Microbiology, continuous learning and upskilling are essential for enhancing her effectiveness in her role. She credits the National University Health System (NUHS) for fostering an environment that encourages professional development.

“I found that NUHS provides a conducive academic setting as an academic health system,” said Yvonne, who holds both a Master of Medical Imaging Science and a Master in Safety, Health, and Environmental Technology.

“There are ample learning opportunities, and being part of an academic institution motivates staff to upgrade their skills. I’m grateful for the bandwidth it has given me to broaden my horizons and advance my career. My current PhD in Synthetic Microbiology offers different knowledge, which I ultimately hope to apply in radiation oncology.”

Interested to join us as a Radiation Therapist? Find out more about working in our institutions and the work that they do  here.

In consultation with Ms Yvonne Loh, Senior Principal Radiation Therapist, NCIS.