5th College of Physicians lecture -- a physician's odyssey: recollections and reflections

Some reminiscences of events since the 1930s are presented chronologically. These include sketches of informal introduction to Medicine at the General Hospital (SGH), the amazing spirit of medical professionals during the "Syonan" years at Tan Tock Seng Hospital (TTSH) and of professors of Medicine and training in Hong Kong, Singapore and Britain. An account of practice of Medicine in the Civil Service, of teaching and research and of evolution of specialist training and examinations in the Academy of Medicine, the University's Post Graduate School (DGMS) and Specialist Accreditation Board (SAB) is given. The over-riding values of our profession are stressed, always contributing to improving the quality and standards of practice in the interests of our patients and fellow men.

Some milestones: specialist education, training and assessment in Singapore

Singapore had its most significant milestone in 1905 when the Singapore Medical School was founded. The Academy of Medicine, founded in 1957, celebrates its Golden Anniversary in 2007. Thus, the events that influenced the development of postgraduate medicine, specialist education, training and examinations commenced rightly from 1957. These are presented chronologically. The significant roles played by the Academy, the University's Medical School and the Ministry of Health are highlighted, bearing in mind the ongoing developments in Singapore and globally over the years. To keep pace with the further developments and advances, the high gold standards in specialist training and assessment need to be refined with time. This can only be to the benefit of our patients and the community in Singapore and beyond.