"My motivation comes from seeing the immediate, transformative impact of my work on patients’ lives.
There’s nothing like the joy and relief of a patient who regains clear vision after surgery."
- Dr Muhammad Amir Tan, Consultant Ophthalmologist at Woodlands Health
How long have you been in your role?
I joined Woodlands Health as an Ophthalmologist in 2019.
Summarise your role in 1-2 sentences.
As an Ophthalmologist (eye surgeon), I specialise in diagnosing and treating eye disorders. My subspecialty focuses on Cornea and Refractive surgery, including corneal transplants and LASIK procedures.
What led you to choose a career in healthcare?
I chose a career in healthcare due to my fascination with the human body and a strong desire to make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Ophthalmology, in particular, appealed to me because it significantly enhances quality of life through vision preservation and improvement. The combination of advanced technology, precise surgical techniques, and ongoing learning opportunities also attracted me to this specialty.
What keeps you motivated at work?
My motivation comes from seeing the immediate, transformative impact of my work on patients’ lives. There’s nothing like the joy and relief of a patient who regains clear vision after surgery. The constantly evolving field of ophthalmology also keeps me intellectually engaged with its advancements in technology and techniques. Additionally, mentoring and educating future eye specialists and medical students adds a fulfilling dimension to my career.
What aspect of your job do you think is often misunderstood?
One aspect often misunderstood in eye surgery is the complexity and precision involved. People might think these surgeries are quick and routine, but they actually require careful planning, in-depth knowledge of the eye, and significant skill. Additionally, the emotional and psychological impact of losing vision and the emphasis we place on addressing the patient’s needs are not always fully recognised.
Could you share a memorable moment from your time in healthcare?
One memorable moment was performing cataract surgery on a patient with very poor vision due to a dense cataract. After the surgery, he regained perfect vision and was amazed to see clearly again. The heartfelt gratitude from him and his family reinforced why I chose this career and highlighted the profound impact our work can have on individuals and their loved ones.
What do you enjoy most about your job?
I find great satisfaction in helping people preserve and improve their eyesight. Seeing patients regain clear vision after surgery is incredibly rewarding. Additionally, being involved in educating and training aspiring doctors and eye specialists adds to my sense of fulfilment.
Do you have a favourite quote or personal mantra?
One of my favourite quotes is by Helen Keller: 'The only thing worse than being blind is having sight but no vision.' This reminds me of the importance of purpose in both my personal and professional life. It inspires me not only to restore physical sight but also to strive for excellence and innovation in my field.
Why did you decide to join us?
I joined Woodlands Health because of its focus on patient care and its innovative approach to healthcare delivery. The opportunity to work in a new facility with a team of skilled professionals was appealing. I was also interested in contributing to the development and implementation of advanced protocols and technologies to improve patient outcomes. The hospital's focus on education and training for future doctors aligns with my passion for mentoring and teaching.
What made you stay with us after 5 years?
I have stayed with Woodlands Health for the past five years because of the supportive work environment and the collaborative nature of my colleagues. The dynamic atmosphere here fosters both professional and personal growth. Working in a new hospital has provided unique opportunities to innovate and refine protocols, which has been fulfilling. Additionally, being involved in training future doctors and eye specialists continues to bring me satisfaction, allowing me to give back to the profession and help shape the next generation of healthcare providers.
If you are interested in contributing to the healthcare sector, join us! View our openings and apply at
www.wh.com.sg/join-us.
