Strengthening Ties:
South Australia Delegation Visits Our ED
On 27 May 2025, we had the honour of hosting a distinguished delegation from the Department for Health and Wellbeing, Government of South Australia (SA Health). The visit focused on our Emergency Department (ED), reflecting a shared commitment to advancing patient care, enhancing operational efficiency, and fostering cross-border knowledge exchange.
The delegation included Mr Chris Picton, Minister for Health and Wellbeing (South Australia), Dr Robyn Lawrence, Chief Executive, Department for Health and Wellbeing (South Australia), and Mr David Wilkins, Chief of Staff to the Minister for Health and Wellbeing (South Australia).
The morning began with a warm welcome at our Level 8 Boardroom, where our senior leaders—A/Prof Dan Yock Young (Chief Executive Officer, NTFGH and JCH), Clin A/Prof Low Shiong Wen (Chairman, Medical Board, NTFGH), Ms Ng Bee Ling (Chief Operating Officer, NTFGH & JCH), and Ms Ng Sow Chun (Chief Nurse, NTFGH & JCH)—met and hosted the delegation.
Dr Gary Choa, Head and Senior Consultant of Emergency Medicine, shared strategies that help our ED manage more patients, minimise delays in moving patients to wards, and cope with workforce pressures.
Both sides recognised similar challenges in managing patient care and hospital operations such as overcrowding, patient flow bottlenecks, and staffing pressures. A Q&A session followed the presentation, where insights on these issues were exchanged. The open dialogue reflected a strong mutual interest in learning from each other’s approaches, and it presented a valuable opportunity to explore new ideas and best practices that could benefit both healthcare systems.
A/Prof Dan and Mr Chris Picton
Following the presentation, a gift exchange took place, reflecting mutual appreciation and goodwill between both parties. It marked a warm gesture of friendship and reinforced the spirit of international collaboration.
The delegation then toured the ED, guided by Dr Choa and supported by Ms Ng Wei Wei (Assistant Director of Nursing, Nursing Administration, NTFGH), Ms Joyce Loke (Senior Assistant Director, Emergency Medicine, NTFGH) and Ms Janna Goh (Senior Manager, Emergency Medicine, NTFGH). The tour covered our ED P1, P2 and P3 areas as well as a visit to the Extended Diagnostic Treatment Unit (EDTU).
This visit not only strengthened Juronghealth campus international ties but also underscored our shared pursuit of healthcare excellence, innovation, and continuous learning.