Editor’s Message » Fresh Perspectives

Dr Peter Ang — EDITOR

I am writing this during the Chinese New Year period 2010. It is the year of the Tiger and many good wishes to our readers.

Our oncology practice is Oncocare. There are two other doctors with me, Dr Leong Swan Swan and Dr Tay Miah Hiang.

When we decided to name our practice “Oncocare”, what was going through our minds? We felt that one of the main needs of patients is actually care.

Not just drugs and more chemotherapy. Yes, it is an essential part of managing our cancer patients, but the care component binds it together. This is reflected in our practice philosophy and our staff. Having a group practice also allows us to discuss and provide the best expertise for our patients and their caregivers.

Another important aspect of our practice is to share knowledge with our patients and their families. I remember having to repair my car air conditioner once and when one mechanic told me it was the compressor problem I changed it only to find that it wasn’t working later from gas pipe leakage.

Only the specialists will know how to manage cancer but sharing our expert knowledge with patients empowers them.

To some extent, cancer patients are vulnerable to false hope and promises. There is often an information deluge when one is diagnosed with cancer or has a loved one with cancer.

We hope to build an informative resource base for those in need to tap on.

A Tiger-rific year to one and all!