History

The Department of Otolaryngology in National University of Singapore (NUS) was formed in 1992. The founding Head was Prof Yeoh Kian Hian. He was the Head of Department from 1992–2002. The Department at NUS was primarily responsible for education of the undergraduate program in Otolaryngology and conducted research, while the Department at NUH was responsible for the clinical care of patients.

During his tenure, Prof Yeoh together with the Visiting Consultants built up the manpower by painstakingly training junior doctors. By 1996, there were 4 staff surgeons and 2 full–time research scientists. This continued to grow till 2002 when there were 7 staff surgeons and 2 full–time research scientists.

In 2002, Prof Yeoh passed the headship at NUS and the Chief position to Associate Professor Luke Tan. Prof Yeoh is an Adjunct Professor with the Department and continues to teach the undergraduates.

During A/Prof Luke Tan tenure, the Department at NUH grew significantly in terms of clinical load. The research output continued to increase and the educational scorecard was always at the higher percentile within the Faculty of Medicine. A/P Tan resigned in November 2007 for private practice and is an Adjunct Associate Professor with the Department.

Dr Thomas Loh was appointed Head in 2008 NUS and Chief at NUH in November 2007. He took over a team that currently consists of 8 other staff surgeons and 1 research scientist. During his short tenure to date, one of the most significant changes has occurred in the NUS/NUH system. This was the formation of a single entity combining the 2 institutions into one single academic institution called the National University Health System (NUHS). With the formation of the Department of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery, National University Health System (NUHS), Dr Loh was appointed Head to lead the Department in clinical work as well as research and educational activities.

Vision

Endeavor in exploring the aspect of Otolaryngology in the world and to provide a series of quality academic teaching for our medical students and residents.

Mission

The mission of the Department is to provide clinical care of an international standard, engage in research that benefits Singaporeans and provide effective education to under–graduate and post–graduate students in the field of Otolaryngology Head & Neck Surgery.