It started as an ordinary day that went a little sideways.
The day before, I’d been unusually tired and dizzy. When I finally reached home, all I wanted was to drop my bag and rest. But the moment I set it on the couch, my balance gave way and I fell forward. Thankfully, the couch broke my fall. I wasn’t hurt, and I stayed fully conscious, but it startled me. I told myself it was just fatigue and that a good night’s rest would fix it.
Except it didn’t.
The next morning, I still felt dizzy and unsteady, like the floor was swaying under me. It took immense effort to focus on walking straight. I felt like I was walking or more like swaying left and right, very unsteady like I am drunk. I decided to visit the GP because I have a lot going on this week and really couldn’t afford the time to be sick right now.
The GP asked plenty of questions and took his time to do some tests. He reassured me that it’s best to get it checked out immediately since it’s better to be safe than sorry. He gave me that calm, serious look and said, “Let’s not take chances. I’m referring you to Changi General Hospital’s A&E.”
Before I could even process it, he prepared the letter and sent me off with clear instructions.
And that’s when I got to see Singapore’s healthcare system in motion; fast, precise, and deeply human.
The moment I arrived at A&E, everything just worked eventhough I felt like a lost kid. I must’ve been flagged for priority because every step flowed smoothly. Registration, tests, consultations etc. but what stood out to me was that each person I met moved with a sense of quiet purpose. There was no chaos, no confusion, just calm coordination.
More importantly, there was care.
The nurse who checked my vitals smiled reassuringly. The staff whom I asked for directions to get to the next station kindly. The doctor explained everything patiently before proceeding. Even the admin staff who took my details did it with warmth and empathy. At no point did I feel like “just another case.”
In the end, it turned out to be a false alarm. Just exhaustion and my body’s way of saying that I need to slow down. But I walked away with something invaluable: gratitude.
Gratitude for the GP who acted with heart quickly. For the nurses and doctors who worked with precision and heart. For the system that prioritises people, not just patients. I would be lying if I said that I wasn’t nervous at all about everything and having to be there but thanks to everyone, I was confident that I was in safe hands.
In that moment, I realised that healthcare isn’t just about medicine. It’s about humanity.
So here’s to the unsung heroes who make sure we’re okay even when it turns out we already are. Thank you for showing me that efficiency and empathy can truly go hand in hand.