Thank You: One Month at Andrew Choong Vascular Surgery

One month into Andrew Choong Vascular Surgery, I wanted to pause and say thank you. I recorded this message on 1 July, a month after the clinic opened, and the video was published on 2 July.

Starting a specialist practice has involved much more than opening the doors. It has also been a reminder of how many people contribute to caring for each patient. I am grateful to everyone who has supported this first month in Singapore.

Thank you for your trust and support

To the patients who have entrusted me with their care, thank you. Seeking advice about a vascular problem can come with questions and uncertainty, and I appreciate the trust involved in that first consultation and each decision that follows.

Thank you also to the GPs and specialist colleagues who have referred patients, and to the nursing and allied health colleagues whose work supports their care. To my friends and family, your encouragement, messages, flowers and good wishes have meant a great deal.

Building the clinic around patient care

If I have been quieter on social media, this is why. Building a practice from scratch has meant renovating the clinic, recruiting and training the team, and establishing the systems and workflows that help each day run smoothly.

It has also meant introducing technology thoughtfully, with a focus on safe, efficient and patient-centred care. Those foundations are less visible than a video or a clinic sign, but they matter to the experience of the people coming through our doors.

A broad first month of vascular care

The first month has included care across the range of vascular conditions: varicose veins and other venous problems, deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, peripheral arterial disease, dialysis access, carotid disease, and aortic aneurysms and more complex aortic conditions.

That variety reflects the breadth of vascular surgery. The right approach depends on the person and the condition, with time to discuss what an assessment or treatment involves.

More practical vascular education ahead

As we find our rhythm, I hope to return to sharing educational videos more regularly. I want to address common questions, explain vascular conditions in everyday language, and discuss practical steps that help people understand their health before a problem becomes serious.

You can learn more about my practice and approach, or contact the clinic at Mount Elizabeth Novena Specialist Centre, #09-22, 38 Irrawaddy Road, Singapore 329563.

Thank you again for being part of this first month. I am grateful for your support and look forward to the work ahead.