Tina Tan
I'd like to welcome Dr Chie Zhi Ying as Deputy Editor to SMA News, and thank Dr Tan Tze Lee for his previous contributions as Deputy Editor. Next, I wish to extend my appreciation to the SMA News team, my fellow Editorial Board members, and the newly elected Council, for their support as I take on the role of Editor.
There is little point in wishing that these transitions had occurred in more peaceful times, though I remain hopeful that by the time this issue is published, the dust of the pandemic will have settled a little. Instead, what I desire is for the newsletter to remain relevant, dynamic, and continue to advocate for all of us as healthcare professionals, and I will strive to do that with my colleagues.
In the midst of the organised chaos wreaked by COVID-19, there is a certain sense of loss that could cause some of us to reconsider our choice of medicine as a career. We might ask ourselves – is this where I'm meant to be? This issue isn't meant to answer that very personal question. Rather, we showcase what some of our colleagues have done in place of the usual "doctoring", and their motivations in doing so. We are grateful for their honest perspectives.
Last but not least, I'd like to thank Dr Jonathan Tan for his years of contribution to SMA News, as he steps down due to work and family commitments. We wish him all the best.
With that, thank you all for your dedication and hard work. Stay safe, everyone.
Chie Zhi Ying
As I'm penning this editorial for the first time as Deputy Editor, I am thankful for the support, guidance and help that I have received from the SMA News team and fellow Editorial Board members. I would also like to thank our readers for giving me the opportunity to share my thoughts and learn from you all over the years.
Congratulations to Dr Tina Tan on taking over SMA News as Editor and the team looks forward to bringing fresh perspectives and issues close to heart to our readers.
Congratulations also to Dr Tan Yia Swam, our ex-Editor, on being elected as our new SMA President, as well as to all newly elected SMA Council members.
It now gives me great pleasure to introduce the theme of this issue, "A New World: Beyond Doctoring". We are privileged to have Dr Andrew Green from Takeda Vaccines to shed light on his works in the pharmaceutical industry and to see how "pharmers" contribute behind the scenes to the better health of all.
This issue also features doctors and medical students who have taken the leap of faith to venture into fields beyond doctoring, such as starting healthcare technology companies.
With that, enjoy the issue, stay safe and stay healthy.