Listen’s to Today’s Episode:
Episode’s Description
In this compelling episode of Postcall: Beyond the White Coat, Dr. Selina sits down with Dr. Cheah, a fellow clinician whose career journey has taken him from the Ministry of Health in Malaysia (KKM) to the prestigious NHS in the UK.
Dr. Cheah and Dr. Selina first crossed paths back in 2016 when they worked together in the Anaesthesia and ICU department at Hospital Sungai Buloh.
During that time, both were driven by a passion for intensive care, but each faced their own challenges within the public healthcare system.
Dr. Cheah shares his personal experiences from his early days in KKM, discussing what drew him to anaesthesiology, the moments that were both rewarding and frustrating, and the challenges of working in a high-stress environment.
He reflects on what he learned, what he loved, and what ultimately led him to question whether there might be something more beyond the walls of Malaysian hospitals.
Feeling the need for growth and new challenges, Dr. Cheah made the bold decision to move to the UK. He talks candidly about his motivations for leaving Malaysia, the process of transitioning to the NHS, and the cultural and professional adjustments required to adapt to a new healthcare system.
He also compares the similarities and differences between KKM and the NHS, offering valuable insights for doctors considering a similar move.
Throughout the conversation, Dr. Cheah offers advice to young doctors aspiring to succeed in anaesthesiology or contemplating a shift abroad.
He reflects on his aspirations for the future and whether he might return to Malaysia one day.
Join us for a deep dive into the journey of a doctor who continues to impact healthcare across different systems and continents, and learn what it takes to succeed beyond the white coat.
To catch up on our previous discussion, check out our last podcast episode , where we covered When You Can’t Complete Housemanship: .Finding a New Path in Pharma. Also read on How to Work as a Doctor in Singapore post here.
