Breaking Barriers in Healthcare
As we celebrate the achievements of women breaking barriers in traditionally male- dominated fields, Madam Tan Suet Guan’s story serves as a beacon of hope and empowerment, inspiring generations to come.
“Getting into healthcare was not challenging, but moving up the ladder was tough because it’s mostly a ‘boys club’ at the top. However, I remained undeterred, I think women can lead just as well as men, maybe even better with their heightened empathy, which is a valuable trait in a healthcare setting,” says Tan.
In the realm of healthcare, her legacy is not just one of professional success, but also of resilience, dedication, and an unwavering belief in the transformative power of vision and leadership.
With a career spanning over four decades, Tan’s journey from management to becoming the Hospital Director of Sri Kota Medical Specialist Centre (SKSMC) in Klang is nothing short of inspirational.
Career in healthcare
Her humble beginnings as an account officer at Pantai Medical Centre in 1982 laid the foundation for her remarkable trajectory. Tan played a pivotal role in securing accreditation from the Joint Commission International for Pantai Kuala Lumpur Hospital in 2009, showcasing her financial acumen and dedication to excellence. Her contributions extended to Normah Medical Centre in Sarawak, where her expertise in financial and billing department assessment left a lasting impact.
In 2013, Tan retired from Pantai Hospital and transitioned to Sunway Medical Centre (SMC). During her brief tenure, she spearheaded SMC’s groundbreaking achievement as the first hospital in Southeast Asia to attain the Australia Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS) Award in 2014.
Today, Tan stands at the helm of SKSMC, a beacon of high-quality private tertiary healthcare nestled in the heart of Klang Royal City, Selangor Darul Ehsan.
Her philosophy emphasizes integrated approaches, prioritising patient comfort, efficacy, and timely interventions, all while harnessing the latest technological advancements.
In the intersection of Tan Suet Guan’s visionary leadership and SKSMC’s commitment to excellence lies a narrative of empowerment and impact. Her journey serves as an inspiration, highlighting the pivotal role of women in shaping the future of healthcare.
Under Tan’s leadership, SKSMC has flourished into a hallmark of excellence, boasting state- of-the-art facilities and Centres of Excellence, including the Cancer Centre, the Hand Unit, the Heart Centre, and the first 24-hour Stroke Centre in Klang.
Reflecting on her journey, Tan says, “I champion improved healthcare standards and the establishment of new centres of excellence, breathing new life into patient care. Since my involvement in this field, I have placed great emphasis on enhancing healthcare standards, especially in patient safety, well-being, and human capital productivity.”
Challenges
Addressing the myriad challenges faced in establishing SKSMC, Tan remarks, “Challenges are an integral part of daily operations in any endeavour, and SKSMC is no exception. The key to setting ourselves apart lies in adeptly navigating these challenges, guiding our team through them, and leveraging each situation to our advantage. Collaborating with our team to solve challenges proves far more effective than attempting to tackle them alone. Together, we are steadfastly committed to delivering exceptional patient experiences, and our collective efforts have propelled us to the forefront as an award-winning hospital.”
Beyond accolades and accreditations, SKSMC’s commitment to corporate social responsibility highlights its dedication to community welfare, aligning seamlessly with the vibrant fabric of Klang.
As SKSMC celebrates its Silver Jubilee this year, Tan’s visionary leadership continues to shape transformative initiatives. From introducing Klang’s first private hospital outdoor escalator on its premises, refurbishing the 24-hour Accident and Emergency Department, and establishing a dedicated 24-hour Stroke Centre, to spearheading meaningful CSR endeavours like ‘Sihat Fest’, ‘Sunathon 2024’, and ‘Free Health Screen for Senior Citizens’.
Tan’s commitment to holistic healthcare remains unwavering. “For over 25 years, SKSMC has been synonymous with healthcare excellence. Our senior leadership and esteemed medical professionals continuously shape industry standards and drive innovation, contributing significantly to the advancement of Malaysia’s healthcare landscape. Additionally, with a legacy of corporate social responsibility, we are committed to continuing our efforts to enhance the quality of care and the quality of life of the community.”
“Through initiatives such as health awareness programmes, educational initiatives, and efforts to eradicate poverty, we strive to create a healthier, more empowered society for all,” Tan added.
Role at SKSMC
Beyond her role at SKSMC, Tan’s trailblazing efforts continue to redefine the boundaries of possibility in the industry, earning her prestigious accolades such as the Asia Women in Leadership Award in 2012 and the Global Leadership Award in 2013.
“My hope is that more will join me to champion better healthcare standards and community well-being. Together, we can truly make a difference, forging a path towards a healthier, prosperous, and inclusive nation,” concluded Tan.
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