Affiliated to The International Society of Radiographers and …msradiographer.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/200609.pdf · 2013-12-26 · Azim Hashim Premji (born July 24, 1945)

MALAYSIAN SOCIETY OF RADIOGRAPHERSAffiliated to The International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists (I.S.R.R.T.)

SEPTEMBER 2006

SSR President'sMessage 1

New Appointment ofRegional Coordinatorof Public Relationsfor the ISSRT 2

MSR Upcoming Events 2

Why Employees LeaveOrganisations? 4

The HistoricalBackground of HumanResource Management 5

The Role of the Chairpersonin an Academic Session 6

From theSecretary’s Desk 7

Tomotherapy andTargeted Therapy 8

MRI in Cancer Detection 9

Tips on dealing withthe burdens of life 9

Presenters at 21st MSRC 11

PersonalEffectiveness 12

The Art of Care –What matters most 13

Tribute to a LeaderDato Dr. S. K.Dharmalingam 17

ISSRT ElectionDetails 18

ISRRT 13th WorldCongress Denver,Colorado 19

In RememberanceDato Dr. S. K.Dharmalingam 20

Messages from Acrossthe Globe 20

C O N T E N T S

I am honoured and privileged to address you in theSeptember issue of the Sinaran. The theme of this year’srecently concluded conference “From Novice to ExpertWe Excel” was indeed apt, as the journey of our profession must be one ofexcellence in whatever stage of the career we are in.

Personally, I had a keen interest in healthcare since my secondary schoolyears. It was providential that I was awarded the Public Service Commission(PSC) scholarship by the Singapore government, that I pursued Radiography.Having embarked on this professional career, I have not looked back.Radiography revealed a perfect combination of the hard and soft sciences,where art and science are married together. This may sound cliché but itwas not until one is competent that one is able to appreciate the art ofRadiography. Of course, having only just over 6 years of professionalexperience behind me, I cannot say that I have already attained as I haveonly just begun.

As President of the SSR (President Singapore Society of Radiographers), Ihave the following objectives for our team’s two-year term of office; namely:1. Governance2. Identity3. Professional Development4. Professional Standards

GovernanceFirstly, we are establishing proper governance of the Society throughimproving the internal administrative framework and guidelines. Thisincludes streamlining internal processes pertaining to all sections. A majorwebsite revamp is being conducted to help achieve this where the websiteis essential for all SSR’s operations. When this is achieved, the ExecutiveCouncil will be able to work with a virtual office anywhere and anytime, aslong as there is an Internet connection.

IdentitySecondly, we are re-establishing our identity amongst Radiographers andbeyond. We are aligning different institutions’ celebration of Radiographers’Day by initiating the Radiographers’ Week from 4 – 11 November 2006.This will also include the inaugural Radiographers’ Family Day on 4November which will be a day for the celebration of Radiographers’contribution to healthcare in Singapore.

We have also commissioned the Golden Jubilee project, a publication tocommemorate the 50th Anniversary of the SSR in 2008. Preparation anddata collection must begin now even though we are in our 48th year, in

(Cont'd on page 3)

WORLD RADIOGRAPHY DAY 8 NOVEMBER 2006

from MICHAEL ONGPRESIDENT

SINGAPORE SOCIETY OF RADIOGRAPHERS

Message

2 SINARAN SEPTEMBER 2006

NEW APPOINTMENT OF REGIONAL COORDINATOROF PUBLIC RELATIONS FOR THE ISSRT

Ms. Tan Chek Wee a fellow radiographer from Singapore was nominated and votedas Regional Coordinator for Public Relations of the International Society ofRadiographers and Radiological Technologists (ISRRT) during the elections heldin Denver, Colorado in June this year. This is a most prestigious position andone that comes with tremendous responsibility. To honour her appointment wewould like to highlight her past experiences and activities in her capacity as amedical professional and council member representing all of us to thisinternational body.

Activities:

• Honorary Secretary for Singapore Society ofRadiographers

• Council member of the International Society ofRadiographers and Radiological Technologists(ISRRT) for Singapore (Between 1999 and 2002and from 2005 till present)

• Conference Secretariat and involved inorganising the Singapore MalaysiaRadiographers Conference, workshops andseminars for Singapore Society ofRadiographers

• Participated in numerous international andregional conferences and seminars

Work Experience:

• April 2005 – Current

• National University Hospital, Singapore

• As a Certified Medical Dosimetrist and SeniorRadiation Therapist.

• April 2003–November 2004 – Sir CharlesGairdner Hospital, Perth, Western Australia asa Radiation Therapist

• May 1995–February 2003 – Gleneagles HospitalSingapore as Radiation Therapist

Professional Qualification:

• Certified Medical Dosimetrist with theAmerican Medical Dosimetry CertificationBoard

• Accredited by the Australian Institute ofRadiographers

• BSc. (Hons) in Radiographic Studies withLondon South Bank University

• BSc. (Econs) in Management Studies withLondon University

• Diploma in Radiotherapy Radiography

CONTACT THE MALAYSIAN SOCIETY OFRADIOGRAPHERS

Email: [email protected]: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/

ms_radiographers/

SINARANEDITORIAL BOARD

EDITOR IN CHARGE

RACHEL BARBARA STA MARIA

EDITORIAL COMMITTEE

GINA GALLYOTM. SRIPRIYA

RAVI CHANTHRIGAMSR UPCOMING EVENTS

MSR STUDY DAY 2007PALACE OF THE GOLDEN HORSES

27TH JANUARY 2007

Theme:Developing The Servant Leader

In You

DISCLAIMERReasonable efforts have been made to ensure the accuracy of this data however, due to the nature of the information, accuracy cannot be guaranteed.The Society furthermore disclaims any liability from any damages of any kind from use of this information. The opinions expressed or implied in thisnewsletter should not be taken as those of the Malaysian Society of Radiographers or its’ members unless specifically indicated.

[email protected]

SINARAN SEPTEMBER 2006 3

members who are young and dynamic, withboundless energies to create and recreate. Wehave been fortunate thus far to be able to recruityoung members into the Council. However, Iwould also encourage the old guards to come onboard to offer their wealth of experience and beinfected with the zeal of the young. YoungRadiographers must not be afraid to step out toserve. Let no man despise your youth. Just befaithful in service and experience will build up inthe course of time.

No mortal can see into the future. However, if wecontinue to build upon our fundamentals towardsa common vision, I’d boldly venture to say thatin 10 years, Radiographers will be professionalswith a innate culture of continuous learning andresearch. The SSR will achieve the aboveobjectives that I have laid for my team and governthe practice of Radiography in Singapore byestablished standards and guidelines. As formyself, wherever I may be, I hope to be able tosupport the growth of both the SSR and ourprofession.

In order to achieve that vision, I’d say to theyoung aspiring professionals as you step into theworkforce: –

• Attitude – have a positive working attitudewhen you start

• Build up your fundamentals• Constantly review your practice to improve• Discern good from bad practices and

endeavour to change practice based onevidence

• Encourage feedback on your performance• Embark on upgrading courses to bring the

profession to a higher level• Fight the good fight for the profession’s causes

To those who are more experienced or who maybe lacking in qualifications, I’d say these to you:-

• Challenge yourselves by upgrading to a degreeif possible

• Be willing to learn and keep up to date withdevelopments

• Share and exchange experiences to adopt bestpractices

• Do not be complacent in your current position,but use your position to build up theprofession’s young shoots

Lastly, I would urge all of you to continue in theabove. Together, we can bring our profession togreater heights.

Michael OngPresidentSingapore Society of [email protected]

order for us to retrace the steps of ourforerunners over the 50 years of our existence. Wehope the 50th / 51st Executive Council that willtake over from us will celebrate the GoldenJubilee with a big bang in 2008.

Professional DevelopmentThis is the greatest challenge for every Council.It is difficult to motivate Radiographers to embarkon continuous professional development afterfacing hectic schedules and manpower shortages.However, we hope to instill this culture in everyradiographer, starting from the existing students.This is done in a few fronts.

Firstly, we aim to line up a series of academictalks in the coming focusing specifically onradiation safety and research. Radiation safety isthe Radiographer and Radiation Therapist’s corebusiness. Radiographic positioning is being takenover by Radiography assistants in the UnitedKingdom. However, Radiography is not justpositioning or patient care. It is the holisticapproach with Radiation safety at the foremost ofour minds. Radiographers as key administratorsof radiation across the electromagnetic spectrummust be guardians of radiation safety. Aprofessional Radiographer is also not atechnician. This is why continuous professionaldevelopment and research to evidence practice,must be a core characteristic of each and everyqualified Radiographer.

Secondly and in line with the above, we aim torevive the “Medical Radiographer”, ourprofessional journal in the coming year.

Thirdly, we hope to continue the bilateralconference with Malaysia in 2007, the 22ndSingapore-Malaysia Radiographers’ Conference,and raise it to greater heights to attract morescientific research papers from both countries andbeyond.

StandardsLastly, we aim to set up standards and guidelinesto govern our profession regardless of whether weare formally required to set up a legal register ofpractitioners. In doing so, we establish and ensurestandards are maintained across the country.This will in turn raise awareness of the professionwithin the healthcare industry, and also boostpublic confidence in us as professionals.

The above objectives are high and lofty idealswhich may not be totally achieved in our brief 2-year term. However, we hope to lay the foundationso that others who receive the baton can continueto build up the profession from where we left off.

In the Executive Council, it is important to havea good mix of members with experience and

(Cont'd from page 1)


WHY EMPLOYEES LEAVE ORGANISATIONS? – By Azim Premji

Azim Hashim Premji (born July 24, 1945) is an Indian businessman andChairman & CEO of one of the largest software companies in India, WiproTechnologies (headquarters located at Bangalore). He was rated therichest person in the country from 1999 to 2005 by Forbes Magazine. Hesays: Every company faces the problem of people leaving the companyfor better pay or profile.

Early this year, Arun, a senior software designer, got an offer from a prestigiousinternational firm to work in its India operations developing specialised software. He was thrilledby the offer. He had heard a lot about the CEO. The salary was great. The company had all theright systems in place employee-friendly human resources (HR) policies, a spanking new office,and the very best technology, even a canteen that served superb food. Twice Arun was sentabroad for training. “My learning curve is the sharpest it’s ever been,” he said soon after hejoined. Last week, less than eight months after he joined, Arun walked out of the job.

Why did this talented employee leave? Arun quit for the same reason that drives many goodpeople away. The answer lies in one of the largest studies undertaken by the Gallup Organisation.The study surveyed over a million employees and 80,000 managers and was published in a bookcalled “First Break All The Rules”. It came up with this surprising finding: If you’re losing goodpeople, look to their immediate boss. An immediate boss is the reason people stay and thrive inan organisation. And he’s the reason why people leave. When people leave they take knowledge,experience and contacts with them, straight to the competition. “People leave managers notcompanies,” write the authors Marcus Buckingham and Curt Coffman.

HR experts say that of all the abuses, employees find humiliation the most intolerable. Thefirst time it happens, an employee may not leave, but a thought has been planted. The secondtime it happens that thought gets strengthened. The third time, he looks for another job. Whenpeople cannot retort openly in anger, they do so by passive aggression. By digging their heels inand slowing down, by doing only what they are told to do and no more and by omitting to givethe boss crucial information. Dev says: “If you work for a jerk, you basically want to get himinto trouble. You don’t have your heart and soul in the job.” Different managers can stress outemployees in different ways - by being too controlling, too suspicious, too pushy, too critical,but they forget that workers are not fixed assets, they are free agents. When this goes on toolong, an employee will quit - often over a trivial issue. Talented men leave. Deadwood doesn’t.

“Jack Welch of GE once said. A company’s value lies“between the ears of its employees”.

“Knowing the truth isNOTHING; Awareness ofthe truth is SOMETHING,

Living the truth isEVERYTHING”


Human resource management has changed inname various times throughout history. Thename change was mainly due to the change insocial and economic activities throughout history.

Industrial Welfare

Industrial welfare was the first form of humanresource management (HRM). In 1833 theFactories Act stated that there should be malefactory inspectors. In 1878 legislation was passedto regulate the hours of work for children andwomen by having a 60 hour week. During thistime trade unions started to be formed. In 1868the first trade union conference was held. Thiswas the start of collective bargaining. In 1913 thenumber of industrial welfare workers had grownso a conference organised by Seebohm Rowntreewas held. The welfare workers association waslater changed to Chartered Institute of Personneland Development.

Recruitment and Selection

It all started when Mary Wood was asked to startengaging girls during the 1st World War. In the1st World War personnel development increaseddue to government initiatives to encourage thebest use of people. In 1916 it became compulsoryto have a welfare worker in explosive factoriesand was encouraged in munitions factories. A lotof work was done in this field by the armedforces. The armed forces focused on how to testabilities and IQ along with other research inhuman factors at work. In 1921 the NationalInstitute of Psychologists established andpublished results of studies on selection tests,interviewing techniques and training methods.

Acquisition of other Personnel ActivitiesDuring the 2nd World War the focus was onrecruitment and selection and later on training;improving morale and motivation; discipline;health and safety; joint consultation and wagepolicies. This meant that a personnel departmenthad to be established with trained staff.

Industrial Relations

Consultation between management and theworkforce spread during the war. This meant thatpersonnel departments became responsible for itsorganisation and administration. Health andsafety and the need for specialists became thefocus. The need for specialists to deal withindustrial relations was recognised so that thepersonnel manager became as spokesman for the

THE HISTORICAL BACKGROUND OF HUMANRESOURCE MANAGEMENT

organisation when discussions where held withtrade unions/shop stewards. In the 1970’sindustrial relations was very important. Theheated climate during this period reinforced theimportance of a specialist role in industrialrelations negotiation. The personnel manager hadthe authority to negotiate deals about pay andother collective issues.

Legislation

In the 1970’s employment legislation increasedand the personnel function took the role of thespecialist advisor ensuring that managers do notviolate the law and that cases did not end up inindustrial tribunals.

Flexibility and Diversity

In the 1990’s a major trend emerged whereemployers were seeking increasing flexiblearrangements in the hours worked by employeesdue to an increase in number of part-time andtemporary contracts and the invention ofdistance working. The workforce and patterns ofwork are becoming diverse in which traditionalrecruitment practices are useless. In the year2000, growth in the use of internet meant a moveto a 24/7 society. This created new jobs in e-commerce while jobs were lost in traditionalareas like shops. This meant an increasedpotential for employees to work from home.Organisations need to think strategically aboutthe issues these developments raise. HRMmanagers’ role will change as changes occur.

Information Technology (IT)Some systems where IT helps HRM are:

• Systems for e-recruitment

• On-line short-listing of applicants

• Developing training strategies on-line

• Psychometric training

• Payroll systems

• Employment data

• Recruitment administration

• References

• Pre-employment checks

IT helps HR managers offload routine tasks whichwill give them more time in solving complextasks. IT also ensures that a greater amount ofinformation is available to make decisions.


Recruiting a Chairperson

The search for a chairperson is one of the mostimportant challenges an academic sessionorganising committee may face. When a searchis successful and the right person is matched tothe right job, your event may reap benefits foryears or even decades to come. Because a trulyoutstanding chairperson affords a meeting somany benefits, and because a poor one can harma session in so many different ways, it is vitalthat the organising committee, particularly thosein leadership positions, devote serious time andattention to how chairpersons are recruited andselected.

Two of the greatest dangers in the search for achairperson are ignorance and apathy.Committee members preoccupied by otherdemands on their time and energy may neglectthe process. With so much at stake in organisinga good meeting, it is remarkable how little timeand attention many committees devote to therecruitment and selection of chairpersons.

Attributes of a Good Chairperson

• Must be dressed neatly and formally accordingto occasion and customs

• Be at the venue well ahead of otherparticipants

• Opens the session with announcements (ifany)

• Make brief explanation of activities that willtake place

• Introduces speakers for the session

• Use pre-written introduction lines for eachspeaker limiting to only name, currentoccupation, academic and professionalachievements

• No personal comments on speakerspersonality , dressing etc

• Manages the academic session

• Ensures that the speakers present within theallocated time

• Ensures that all relevant paraphernalia orelectronic gadgets for the speaker are readyprior to presentation.

• The chairperson may not examine or questionthe speaker and should only provideclarification of any matters when requested bythe speaker

• The chairperson does not participate in thediscussion and should leave all deliberationsto members of the floor during question andanswer time

• They must not try to influence the audienceand remain neutral at all times

• The chairperson cannot dominate the sessionin words or actions

• They may offer words of encouragement orpraise but very briefly

• Be a character builder – make the audienceeager to hear the speaker

• Help promote two-way communicationthroughout the question and answer sessionenabling everyone to make their views heard

• Have common sense when to speak and whennot to speak

• Be able to articulate in one language onlythroughout entire session – no mixing oflanguages for any reason

• To maintain an observer’s role at all times

• To nurture the abilities of the speakers andnot be the speaker

Negative behaviour of a chairperson:

• We forget what a lonely job that of chairpersoncan be but he/she must never overcompensatethis by being chatty with the audience

• An ineffective chairperson may be a poorrepresentation of the profession within thecommunity or medical arena, squanderingimportant opportunities for collaboration andgrowth among participants

• An arrogant chairperson may communicatebadly or act arbitrarily, damaging the moraleof the speaker

• An unenlightened chairperson may have apoor picture of the academic session themeand mission thereby costing the meeting someof its best moments

• An insecure chairperson may unwittinglyundermine the ability of a speaker byunwanted statements and in fact incite somesections against one another

• A socially inept chairperson may compromisethe speakers’ efforts

• Some chairpersons find themselves in adifficult position because they lack the abilityto control themselves and the audience

THE ROLE OF THECHAIRPERSON IN ANACADEMIC SESSION

“So in order to be the Leader you mustfirst learn to be the Servant by making anearnest commitment to the success of thesession and effectively achieve it”


FROM THE SECRETARY’S DESKPackya Narayanan [email protected]

The 21st Malaysia Singapore RadiographersConference was held at the Promenade Hotel inKota Kinabalu, Sabah from the 12th till the 13th

of August 2006. Participants were fromMalaysia, Singapore and Australia. Registered attendance for theconference was well over 130 delegates.

Our guest of honour was Dato’ Dr. Noorimi Hj. Morad the Directorof Medical Development Division, Ministry of Health and we weremost privileged to receive her message encouraging future activeparticipation of radiographers in this annual meeting between bothcountries.

Dr. Siti Fathimah Abbas, Consultant Radiologist from the Ministryof Health presented a thought provoking theme paper “FromNovice To Expert We Excel” that totally encompassed the reasonwe were gathered those two days. It was a very timely andappropriate call to healthcare personnel such as our selves to bemore open to technological changes and improvement in servicedelivery.

Both Presidents from across the causeway delivered their welcomeaddress to the participants wishing them an enriching academicsession. And indeed it was a most educational and inspiringsession with speakers presenting papers in their special areas ofexpertise and knowledge. The generosity of spirit demonstratedby these speakers in sharing their wisdom and research findingswas very valuable to all who attended the meeting.

The souvenirs chosen by the Assistant Secretary Ms. Chan LaiKuan amplified this with the engraved words – “The Power ofKnowledge is Through Sharing”.

The Local Organising Committee under the excellent leadershipof Tuan Hj. Limon Mohd. Rupin deserves special mention for theirperfect coordination without which we would not have had sucha smooth event. The superb teamwork of Hj. Limon Mohd Rupin,Patsy Hue, Tan Siew Hong, Noraisyah Lanisa, ChrisnawatiSalian and E.Razuan Manap made a big difference and the MSRthank them for their commitment and perseverance.

The Local Committee had also arranged an amazing cultural showfor the Banquet Dinner together with some light dinner games thatbrought back sweet memories of childhood days which furtherstrengthened the bonds of friendship between the delegates. It wasa truly memorable time for all attendees with comments from many that they were eagerly lookingforward to the next conference to be held in Singapore in August 2007.

Last but not least we thank all the hotel staff for their hard work and extra effort in making ourevent a success.

A little knowledge that acts is worth infinitely more thanmuch knowledge that is idle

Kahlil Gibran – Early 20th Century Lebanese artist, poet and writer

MSR EXCO2005-2007

PRESIDENTHjh Salmah Ahmad

012-3909135

VICE PRESIDENTHj Mahfuz Mohd Yusop

016-3808593

TREASURERHjh Noor Khairi012-6961500

SECRETARYPackya Narayanan Dassan

012-2956354

ASSISTANT SECRETARYChan Lai Kuan016-6051388

EDITORIALRachel Sta Maria

012-3272605

EDUCATIONSawal Marsait012-6346509

FORWARD PLANNINGDr. Mohd Hanafi Ali

012-9805364

SOCIALKhorlid Hassan013-6338634


TomoTherapy Highly Integrated AdaptiveRadiotherapy (HI-ART)

This is the newest radiation therapy option.The TomoTherapy HI-ART system combines anadvanced form of Intensity Modulated RadiationTherapy (IMRT), the accuracy of ComputerisedTomography (CT) scanning technology andadvanced tools for planning and deliveringradiation therapy in one machine.

With TomoTherapy HI-ART, the RadiationTherapy Team can:

• Sculpt small, powerful and precise radiationbeams to hit hard-to-reach tumors

• Target tumors using built-in CT scanning toconfirm the shape and position of the tumorseconds before your treatment begins

• Reduce radiation exposure to healthysurrounding tissue, often dramatically

Traditional radiation therapies project radiationon a tumor from a few directions butTomoTherapy HI-ART allows your RadiationTherapy Team to deliver precise and powerfuldoses of radiation therapy from 360-degrees.

An on-board CT scanner helps your care teamdetermine if your tumor has shifted or changedshape since your last treatment. This informationallows your radiation oncologist to plan yourtreatment better to avoid damage to muscletissue, the spine, the lungs and other sensitiveorgans.

If you have reached your maximum tolerancedose of traditional radiation, or if your tumor isin a hard-to-reach area, TomoTherapy HI-ARTmay open new doors to advanced radiationtherapy treatments.

TARGETED THERAPY IN CHEMOTHERAPY

Targeted therapy is the result of about 100 yearsof research dedicated to understanding thedifferences between cancer cells and normalcells. To date, cancer treatment has focusedprimarily on killing rapidly dividing cells becauseone feature of cancer cells is that they dividerapidly. Unfortunately, some of our normal cellsdivide rapidly too, causing multiple side effects.

Targeted therapy is about identifying otherfeatures of cancer cells. Scientists look forspecific differences in the cancer cells and thenormal cells. This information is used to createa targeted therapy to attack the cancer cellswithout damaging the normal cells, thus leading

TOMOTHERAPY AND TARGETEDTHERAPY to fewer side effects. Each

type of targeted therapyworks a little bit differentlybut all interfere with theability of the cancer cellto grow, divide, repairand/or communicate withother cells.

There are different typesof targeted therapies,defined in three broadcategories. Some targetedtherapies focus on theinternal components andfunction of the cancercell. These targetedtherapies use small molecules that can get intothe cell and disrupt the function of the cells,causing them to die.

There are several types of targeted therapy thatfocus on the inner parts of the cells. Othertargeted therapies target receptors that are onthe outside of the cell. Therapies that targetreceptors are also known as monoclonalantibodies. Anti-angiogenesis inhibitors targetthe blood vessels that supply oxygen to the cells,ultimately causing the cells to starve.

Researchers agree that targeted therapies are nota replacement for traditional therapies. Theymay best be used in combination with traditionaltherapies. More research is needed to identifywhich cancers may be best treated with targetedtherapies and to identify additional targets formore types of cancer.

Targeted therapies:

• Signal Transduction inhibitors: ImatinibMesylate (protein-tyrosine kinase inhibitor)

• Genefitinib (epidermal growth factor receptortyrosine kinase inhibitor)

Genefitinib is a targeted therapy that targets andbinds to the epidermal growth factor receptors(EGFR) on the surface of the cell. EGFR is foundon the surface of many normal and cancer cells.By binding to these receptors genefitinibblocks an important pathway that promotescancer cell division.


MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)IN CANCER DETECTION

Researchers have developed and piloted clinicalimaging techniques for the analysis and displayof serial-time MRI, which is showing greatpromise in the early detection and treatment ofbreast cancer.

The team from Florida Atlantic University, theCenter for Breast Care at the Women’s Center atBoca Raton Community Hospital, and MeVis, theCentre for Diagnostic Systems and Visualisationat the University of Breman, Germany have usedthe mathematical concept of fractals todevelop the software.

“Fractals are large, irregular geometric patternsmade up of infinitely smaller, but identical,irregular patterns,” said Dr Heinz- Otto Peitgen.“Fractal theory provided an appropriate platformupon which to build the software programbecause the ducts within human breast tissuehave fractal properties.”

Breast MRI is a relatively new tool used todiagnose breast cancer as an adjunct toconventional mammography. Breast MRIdisplays the behavior of a cancerous lesion inthree dimensions and approaches a nearly 100per cent accuracy rate in the detection of invasivecancer.

In contrast, mammography provides a two-dimensional view of the breast and surroundingtissue and only detects 80 to 85 percent oftumors. One of the main strengths of MRI is itsprecise delineation of soft tissue and its abilityto image the breast in fine sections dynamicallyby taking multiple MRI images.

A recent study by Kathy Schilling, medicaldirector of Imaging and Intervention at the Centerfor Breast Care at the Women’s Center at BocaRaton Community Hospital, was published in TheAmerican Journal of Radiology and entitled“Assessment of Suspected Breast Cancer by MRI- A Prospective Clinical Trial Using a CombinedKinetic and Morphologic Analysis.” Findingsshowed that in more than 30 per cent of patientsthere were additional tumours in the samebreast, and in almost one in 10 patients therewere tumours in both breasts.

“These tumours were not found usingmammography or ultrasound,” said Schilling. “Wealso found a resulting change in the course oftreatment in nearly a quarter of patientsundergoing surgery for newly diagnosed breastcancer.” In addition, findings from this studyshowed that MRI directed biopsies usingcomputational clinical imaging led to definitiveconclusions.

Tips on dealing with the burdens of life

1. Accept that some days you’re the pigeon, and some days you’re the statue

2. Always keep your words soft and sweet, just in case you have to eat them

3. Drive carefully. It’s not only cars that can be recalled by their maker

4. If you lend someone $20 and never see that person again, it was probably worth it

5. It may be that your sole purpose in life is simply to serve as a warning to others

6. Never buy a car you can’t push

7. Never put both feet in your mouth at the same time, because then you won’t have a legto stand on

8. When everything’s coming your way, you’re in the wrong lane

9. Birthdays are good for you. The more you have, the longer you live

10. A truly happy person is one who can enjoy the scenery on a detour


PRESENTERS AT 21ST MALAYSIA SINGAPORE RADIOGRAPHERS CONFERENCEKOTA KINABALU, SABAH 12-13TH AUGUST 2006

Radiographer as a Clinical EducatorMohd Zin Bin YusofChief RadiographerDiagnostic Imaging Department,Kuala Lumpur [email protected]

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)Christopher AuPrincipal RadiographerNational University Hospital, [email protected]

Quality Assurance in ComputedRadiographyKhadijah Bt RamliBiomedical Imaging, Faculty of Medicine,University Malaya, Kuala [email protected]

MRI@AH: 1.5 Tesla – 3.0 yearsexperienceTan Tee MengSenior Radiographer (MRI in-charge)Alexandra Hospital, [email protected]

From Distress to EustressGoh Mey LihRadiation TherapistNational Cancer Society of MalaysiaCancer Treatment Centre,Tung Shin Hospital, Kuala [email protected]

The patient centered approachMahfuz Mohd. YusofChief Radiation TherapistDepartment of Radiotherapy and Oncology,Kuala Lumpur [email protected]

Radiographer’s role in the transition ofAnalog (screen film Radiographicimaging) to Digital ImagingAngadiyathu Peter RoyNational University Hospital, [email protected]

Visualisation of Uric Acid Renal Calculiusing Computed RadiographySulaiman Md DomProgram HeadFaculty of Health SciencesUniversiti Teknologi [email protected]

Reject / Repeat analysis of CR: Is it stillrelevantHabibah Hj AbdullahCoordinator, Post Basic Diploma Bio-Medical Imaging (U/S)Radiography Tutor College of RadiographyUniversity of Malaya Medical CentreKuala [email protected]

The Radiographer in professionalLeadership RoleGary TanDeputy Manager,Department of Diagnostic RadiologySingapore General [email protected]

A Comparative Study between ComputedRadiography and Screen-FilmMammography Systems in the Detectionof MicrocalcificationsRavi Chanthriga EturajuluSenior Diagnostic RadiographerUniversity of Malaya Medical Centre, [email protected]@yahoo.com

3 –Dimensional Conformal BreastPlanning Technique – NationalUniversity Hospital ExperienceTan Chek WeeCertified Medical Dosimetrist and SeniorRadiation TherapistNational University Hospital, [email protected]

From Novice to Expert through TeamWorkSripriya ManoharanSenior Radiation TherapistNational Cancer Society of MalaysiaCancer Treatment Centre,Tung Shin Hospital, Kuala [email protected]

“There are people who speak to us andwe do not listen to them.

There are people who hurt us andthey don’t leave a scar.

But there are people who simply appear inour life and they mark us for ever.”(Cecília Meireles – Brazilian poet,

journalist and teacher)

The Scientific Meeting is available on VCD for a limited time only. Price RM40/- per set (7 CDs). To order please send a RM2/- stamped self-addressedenvelope (sized 9" x 6") to the MSR Secretariat c/o Department of Diagnostic Imaging Kuala Lumpur Hospital together with your payment either bycheque, bank draft or money order. Please do not send cash. Please write on envelope left hand corner 21st MSRC PRESENTATION.


Personal EffectivenessPersonal effectiveness is amatter of style and substance.It’s also a matter of personalvalues, character, humannessand confidence in thecreativity, initiative andcapabilities of others. Aboveall it’s a matter of ‘engaging’other human beings.

1. Develop a vision!Planning for the longer termpays off, and working backwardsfrom a vision of the desired endresult creates clarity andpurpose. People want to followsomeone who knows where he orshe is going.

2. Simplify!You need to see the big picturein order to set a course,communicate it and maintain it.Keep the details at bay. You alsoneed to then simplify reality andidentify the essential activitiesand action steps to get there.Focus on what really matters interms of customers, value addedand performance.

3. Trust your people!You can’t expect them to go allout for you if they think youdon’t believe in them. And theydefinitely will not go all out ifthey don’t trust you. Be

systems and structures to actand to grow.

9. Develop ownership!Stimulate self directed actionand transfer responsibility andownership to those who do thework.

10. Tell the truth!There is no more ef fectivemethod of engaging individualsand making a difference thantelling the truth - about what ishappening, what you want, howyou want to get there, and whatyou want, need and expect fromothers. A ‘ruthless commitment’to telling the truth is perhapsthe most liberating andrefreshing approach toeffectiveness in any context.This is all part of ‘the quiet workof leadership.’

trustworthy and build trust by‘trusting’.

4. Keep your cool!The best leaders show theirmettle under fire. Stay ‘incommand’ with full attention toeverything that is going on.

5. Be an expert!Everyone had better understandthat you know what you’retalking about. And even whenyou don’t know you’re an expertin finding out!

6. Encourage risk!Encourage individuals to takechances and to accept error andfailure as an inherent facet oflearning and growth. Encourageand unleash the creativity ofthose around you.

7. Invite dissent!You’re not getting the best orlearning how to lead if peopleare afraid to speak up andengage themselves in whatyou’re up to. Heat and frictionare natural ingredients ofenergised and high performingindividuals and groups.

8. Remove obstacles!Remove obstacles and barriers,and provide the tools, training,

As a young man, Al was a skilled artist, a potter. He had a wife and two fine sons. One night, his oldest son developed asevere stomachache. Thinking it was only some common intestinal disorder, neither Al nor his wife took the conditionvery seriously. But the malady was actually acute appendicitis, and the boy died suddenly that night. Knowing the deathcould have been prevented if he had only realized the seriousness of the situation, Al’s emotional health deterioratedunder the enormous burden of his guilt. To make matters worse his wife left him a short time later, leaving him alonewith his six-year-old younger son. The hurt and pain of the two situations were more than Al could handle, and heturned to alcohol to help him cope. In time Al became an alcoholic.

As the alcoholism progressed, Al began to lose everything he possessed – his home, his land, his art objects, everything.Eventually Al died alone in a San Francisco motel room. When I heard of Al’s death, I reacted with the same disdain theworld shows for one who ends his life with nothing material to show for it. What a complete failure! I thought. What atotally wasted life! As time went by, I began to re-evaluate my earlier harsh judgment. You see, I knew Al’s now adultson, Ernie. He is one of the kindest, most caring, most loving men I have ever known. I watched Ernie with his childrenand saw the free flow of love between them. I knew that kindness and caring had to come from somewhere. I hadn’theard Ernie talk much about his father. It is so hard to defend an alcoholic.

One day I worked up my courage to ask him. “I’m really puzzled by something,” I said. “I know your father was basicallythe only one to raise you. What on earth did he do that you became such a special person?” Ernie sat quietly and reflectedfor a few moments. Then he said, “From my earliest memories as a child until I left home at eighteen, dad came into myroom every night, gave me a kiss and said, “I love you, son.” Tears came to my eyes as I realized what a fool I had beento judge Al as a failure. He had not left any material possessions behind. But he had been a kind loving father, and heleft behind one of the finest, most giving men I have ever known.

– Bobbie Gee – Winning the Image Game

All business operations can bereduced to 3 words: People,Product and Profits. Unlessyou have got a good team, youcannot do much with theother two.

Lee Iacocca – Chairman ofChrysler Corporation


over looked the delicate needs of patients. Thesehealth care providers must pay equal andimportant attention to reducing the patient’sanxiety, improving patients’ mentalperceptiveness to the examination and treatment,conducting effective communication,demonstrating empathy as well as giving positiveencouragement and love to the patient. Theradiographers for example, are so preoccupiedwith other aspects of their job such as the needto finish all the cases within a stipulated time;ensuring the sequence of the examinationprocedure is correct and learning all about thelatest technologies for personal development andself-interest. With the increase in the number ofcomplaints and dissatisfaction from patients(mostly unofficial and undocumented) it is timethat we take a serious look at the quality of theART of CARE. It is important to have a balancebetween the Science and the Art of Care in orderto satisfy patient’s expectations.

ObjectiveThe purpose of this study is to find out what arethe priorities of the health care providers. Therespondents of this study were second yearradiography students, who will be the futurehealth care providers. Observations were carriedout in the clinical area to determine how care isbeing given by the students. The patients werealso included and interviewed in this study toobtain their input and comments towards thecare that they had received from the health careproviders. Their input serves as a realitybenchmark against the health care providers’priorities. The findings gave us a betterperspective of what to expect and how to steertowards excellence in the Art of Care.

Material and methodologyThe following respondents were randomly invitedto participate in this study:

• 53 second-year radiography students• 20 patients

The students were asked to answer pre-setquestions and observations were carried out inthe clinical area to determine how care is beinggiven by the students. In this study a smallnumber of patients were also being interviewedto obtain their opinion towards care that theyhad received from the health care provider.

1. QuestionOn the 1st day, the students were asked toanswer the question “What matters most if youare a radiographer?” They are to list ten thingsin order of most importance to them. On thesecond day, the same question was asked againbut this time, the students were asked to list theten most important things to them assuming they

THE ART OF CARE –WHAT MATTERS MOST

Chan Lai Kuan,Unit PengururusanPeperiksaan Dan Persijilan,Bahagian PengurusanLatihan, KementerianKesihatan [email protected]

IntroductionThe Science of Care and the Art of Care are thetwo most important aspects in the medical field.The Science of Care focuses on the physicalneeds and comfort of the patient. The Art of Care,however, deals with the psychological needs ofthe patient which are the patient’s emotions andfeelings.

With the advancement of technologies, there isno dispute about the increased quality in Scienceof Care. The physical comfort and treatment ofthe body is made available with the latest medicalknowledge and the state-of-the-art technologies.At present, we have well designed hospitals thatcan cater to every physical need of the patient.This is evidently present with the pleasantwaiting areas and reception counters, thebeautiful landscaping, spacious canteens and thecomfortable wards, just to name a few.

The computerized Hospital Information System(HIS), Radiological Information System (RIS) andPicture Archiving and Communication System(PACS) in the radiology department has reducedpaper work and minimised waiting time. Inaddition, the advances in radiologicaltechnologies such as Multislice ComputedTomography (MSCT), open system MagneticResonance Imaging (MRI), digital fluoroscopy,Digital Subtraction Angiography, 3-D(Dimensional) Ultrasound has made imageacquisition simple and fast.

The introduction of new types of contrast mediawith fewer side effects has reduced risk andunnecessary trauma to patients. Advancement intechnologies also allows simpler and less invasivemethods to be used in examination procedureswhile diagnosing and treating diseases. All theseimprovements and facilities have contributedgreatly to the improvement of the Science of Care.

On the other hand, one may wonder - Has thequality in the Art of Care also improvedcomparatively with the Science of Care? Manypatients, radiological educators and even thepublic have doubts in this aspect. Most of thetime, the health care providers, in their eagernessto treat and see their patients well again, have


are a patient who requires services at theradiological department.

2. ObservationThe students were randomly observed at thediagnostic department. The purpose of theobservation is to study their attitude towards thepatients while providing care during theirpractical training.

3. Interview of patientThe 20 patients were randomly interviewed tofind out what matters most to them whenreceiving Radiological Services. These patientscame from different ethnic groups, variouseducation backgrounds and also a mixture ofmale and female.

Results1. QuestionThe answers obtained for the first set of questiondisplayed priority of self and also care from theaspect of Science of Care. 80% of the studentsstated that to acquire more knowledge andtechnical competency for self-achievement orstatus as the thing matter most to them. Only20% of the students included things related topatients care such as effective communication,ensuring patients’ privacy, being sympathetic andhaving empathy.

The following are the things that were ofmost concern to them:1. To acquire more knowledge and technical

competency for self-achievement2. Produce high quality images3. Good pay and good promotion opportunities4. Good working environment5. Good team work6. Practise radiation protection7. Have effective communication8. Short waiting time9. No repeats10. Giving clear explanation

The priorities changed when the students tookthe role as a patient. Their answers reviewed theelement of care and mostly the aspect of the Artof Care. Unanimously, the first priority theywrote was to be treated well. Some evenelaborated in detail what they meant by “beingtreated well” - that is willingness to serve, caring,show understanding and happy to serve.

The ten most important things for a patientare as follow:1. To be treated well, demonstrate willingness

to serve, caring, understanding and happyto serve attitude

2. To be placed as most important than otherjob or responsibility

3. To be respected and cared for4. To understand patient’s problem and

condition5. Must smile often and be friendly6. Must observe patient’s right, privacy and

dignity7. Must provide accurate diagnosis and

immediate treatment8. Must be able to give clear explanation of

procedure9. Must do it right the first time - no repeats

in any examination10. Must provide radiation protection

2. ObservationMajority of the students (80%) performedradiological examinations like a “programmedrobot”. Procedures are carried out asprogrammed; giving the same instructions;asking the same questions and performing thesame actions routinely. There was no personaltouch in giving care to the patients. Even thougheverything that needed to be done were carriedout properly but there was lack of interest andfeeling; no genuine smile on the face, not muchexplanation, no eye contact, very minimalcommunication, no compassion and far fromhaving sympathy and empathy. Some studentsdidn’t even remember their previous patient whenasked. Some admitted that they don’t really lookat the patient but only focus on the part of thebody that requires examination. They regard theexamination that they do is just a task to becompleted as fast as possible. They don’t expressmuch compassion in doing the job.

3. Patient Interview20 patients were randomly interviewed to find outwhat mattered most to them when receivingradiological services. Among the things thatmatter most to the patients are that the healthcare providers must have compassion and acaring attitude, have patience, willing to spendtime to explain in simple lay-man terms what thepatient has to go through. Must be able tocommunicate effectively; give instructions clearlyand willing to listen to the patient if they are indoubt. Must show empathy towards patient’ssuffering. Have good rapport with patientregardless of their race, culture, education leveland age.

It appeared that the patient had expected thefacilities of the department should be up-to- dateas the government had injected so much moneyin upgrading the standard of health care servicein the hardware and infrastructures. What thepatient really hopes for is the gentle/personaltouch from the radiographers. A little show ofkindness goes a long way and caring bedsidemanner is the thing that matters most to them.


Some patients even mentioned it is all right towait for a little while longer if they were informedfor the delay. They feel much better even if theprocedure cause them much pain and discomfortif the radiographer shows empathy and were withthem to give emotional support and not leavethem alone. Some good examples that were givenby the patients were to be pre-warned gently andgiven assurance and encouragement to endure,such as the oral contrast tastes “a little funnybut its all right” even though it actually tastedhorrible; to tell the patient that the proceduresdoes hurt a little but in actual fact it does hurtquite a bit; to encourage the patients so they donot need to feel shy even though the normalprocedure that is done so often may causeembarrassment to them. The patients prefer tobe informed before hand so they are prepared forthe awful taste, the pain, the feeling ofembarrassment and can mentally adjust to thesituation. By describing what they have to gothrough will help the patients overcome physicaland emotional discomfort.

Discussion and RecommendationFrom this study on the future radiographers, itis obvious that the students, the future healthcare providers, had set their priority from thewrong perspective when they become theradiographers. They failed to embrace and fullyappreciate the basic fundamental of the healthcare professionals’ existence (why and for whatreason they are there?) - That is for the patients.Even if they “know” the basic fundamentals of thehealth care profession, they sometimes forgetthat the main concern of care is the patient, notjust their physical needs, but “the overall needsas a human being” which cover the entiredimension - physical, emotional, social andspiritual. In brief, their main focus is moretowards the Science of Care. They did not realisethat the patient has already expected the qualityof the Science of Care to be built into the systemand to be excellent. It is expected to be of highquality since we have the advanced technologiesthat enable it to be easily achieved.

On the other hand, when the students took therole of the patient, naturally they can putthemselves in the others shoes. Hence, theanswers provided reflected the needs of thepatient and mostly were on the aspect of the Artof Care. They would like the health care providersor the radiographers to be willing to serve, to careand to love. When they were having the role asa radiographer, willingness to serve and love wasfar from their minds as other priorities precededthose qualities.

From the observation, the students obviouslydemonstrate very little element of care in the

aspect of the Art of Care. They did well no doubt,in the Science of care. As stated, they haddeveloped a habit of working like a “programmedrobot”. All they did were monotonous androutine, there was no personal touch in givingcare to the patient and assessment of differentneeds in care was not taken into consideration.

By interviewing the real/genuine patient, itconfirmed the fact that all patients’ expectationsare the same; whether they are the studentstaking the role of a patient, OR they are the realpatients; the responses they gave were similar.The Art of Care is what matter most to them.Their expectation of the Science of Care is as italready made available. It is the Art of Care thatis what they wish for.

From this simple study, it is obvious thatsomething has to be done to improve the qualityof care in the aspect of the Art of Care. Thechallenge before us is: the Art of Care involvesthe element of one’s attitude, which cannot betaught in class like learning A-B-C. We all knowthe subject on patient care is included in thetraining syllabus and the students may learn allthe guidelines just to pass examination. Howmuch real learning that has taken place is aquestion yet to be answered.

The Art of Care is something inherent in aperson. The desire to help with compassion andlove is inherent. Even though a caring attitudeis something that is inherent but the upbringingand personality also play a role. It also can beacquired through observation, passion for theprofession and willingness to change.Radiography Educators and also the seniorradiographers should be good role models andemphasise good caring attitudes for the juniorsto emulate.

Providing the students with opportunities toexperience the procedure during role-play andpractical sessions will certainly help createawareness and help students to be more sensitiveand understand the needs of patients. Theseexperiences include tasting the barium and oralcontrast; having compression band on them,lying in an MRI and CT, take the role of patientand being position by other fellow students etc.

Students are to be informed for the followingissues to make them realise caring is not just arequirement but also requested by law. Thingsthat the educators have to put into teaching are:

The patient is a person and not a case/object.We must think, regard and care for a patient asa human being with a home, family, problem,joys, sorrow, habits, and beliefs similar to us.Whilst doing cases, do not only concentrate on


Communicate openly with them and allow themto be partners in the decision making process oftheir care. A patient that feels he or she canparticipate in his/her care will not feel disabledby the system and will be able to give fullcooperation in the process of care.

Lastly, the most important thing to inculcate inthe student is the need to love and care for theirpatients, as we would like others to do unto us.A word of caution; a blanket on the cold feet; asoft mattress on the hard table, a clean pillowcase and patient gown; a cup of hot tea; anencouraging hand grip; some comforting words,an assuring nod, a little gesture that is not thatdifficult to perform but may mean so much tothe patient who received it. It may be their bestremembered and most appreciated experience.

ConclusionIn the 21st century the job of the radiographerincludes care for the terminally ill and also thehealthy person. With the advancement oftechnologies and the upgrades in educationstandard/level, patient’s expectation of care alsoincreases. To satisfy them merely through theScience of Care is no longer adequate. So, it isundisputable that the health care providers haveto take the challenge to embrace the Art of Carein their respective professions if they do not wishto be wrongly perceived as an uncaringprofessional.

If one can always empathize with the patient;putting oneself in their place; treating them asa whole person, as a VIP, remember their rightsand also the requirement by law of their duties,we will be able to face challenges and emerge asthe best. The best radiographers have passion intheir work and love their patients. They treattheir patients with the same kind of concern andrespect that they would appreciate if they wereill. (Enrlich & McCloskey, 1989).

BibliographyEnrlich, R.A. & McCloskey, E.D. (1989). PatientCare In Radiography. (3rd ed). C.V. Mosby Co, Stlouis.Richard R. Carlton & Arlene M. Adler (1996).Principles Of Radiographic Imaging- An Art And AScience. (2nd ed) Delmar Publishers. Albany.Sarah Sabaratnam . Hey, Doc, Talk To Me. NewStrait Times 19 October 2004.Oliver, R. W. (1993). Psychology And Health Care.Bailliere Tindall London

the part to be treated but the whole individual.So often we refer to our patient/client as “a foot”,an IVU or CT, “the skinny lady with Ca breast”,the good looking man with HIV etc. The studentsneed to be taught to address patients correctlyright from the beginning of their training todevelop good and professional habits/manner.

Every patient is a VIP as they are the singlereason for the existence of the health careprovider. Often we regard ourselves as indifferentwhen treating patient, but at times we are quietbias in treating our patients. We will be morecaring with some patients but get bored or showour displeasure especially with very demandingand difficult patients. It is important that thestudents avoid biasness in patient care. This issomething not easy to achieve, but we have tostart somewhere, to eventually achieve this.

Our role is to serve the patient with the latestimaging techniques, not just to get a bettersalary. This is often the real scenario in theimaging department. The radiographer will try toacquire, as much knowledge and expertise aspossible on the latest imaging modality toincrease their own market value. Very few do itwith the good intention of serving the patient.The students need to be coached to obtain latestknowledge, not just to update professionalqualification for self-development, but mostimportantly, to providing better care for patients.The greatest gift one can receive is having a bigthank you from a patient.

The student should be taught the legal aspect ofpatient care, too. Abide by the law, we have theduty of care to our patients, but breaching of thiscare, be it intentional or unintentional, mayresult in a lawsuit. Cases like forgetting to protecta patient from the radiation while making aradiographic exposure; failure to inform thepatient a media contrast study may be requiredafter a plain CT examination or a patient suffersinjury due to radiographers’ negligence can be abasis for litigation.

With better education and knowledge, it will notcome as a surprise if we are going to get a lawsuitin the field of medical Imaging.

The students need to learn about the patient’sbill of rights for example the patient’s charter, theprinciples of professional conduct forradiographers and also the code of practice andethics. Knowledge of these articles will serve asa guide and reminder in our professional conductand help us to serve the patient better.

The students also need to learn to respectpatients’ personal preference and values andmaintain patient privacy and dignity.

You have to do the right thing. It may not be in your power;maybe not in your time, that there’ll be any fruit. But that

doesn’t mean you stop doing the right thing.~ Mahatma Gandhi


A ’’ Legend ’’ he was and he will always beremembered and revered by all those for whomhe had provided opportunities for a better life.He was more than a boss, more than a friend toeveryone who either worked for him or sought hiswisdom in matters not only pertaining toRadiotherapy but also in law, politics,engineering, architecture, accountancy and soon. In brief he was a master Ior GURU and wasalways beyond the average intellectual of histime.

Hidden behind an arrogant outlook he was agentle, warm and compassionate soul. He wouldalways want to bring out the best of those whosought his guidance. In Sanskrit the word‘’Dharma’’ in itself means the Natural Law orReality, and with respect to its significance forspirituality and religion might be considered theWay of the Higher Truths. And since truth isimperishable then Dharma will always live on.

I reported to Dr. Dharmalingam, the Headof Institute of Radiotherapy, Nuclear Medicineand Oncology in 1967. At our first meeting hedisplayed a character of discipline,determination, devotion and dynamism.Though my initial impression of the old and run-down department was depressing, he made up forit with his visionary aspirations for the future bylaying out a plan for the newdepartment which was then still underconstruction. The completion of the newdepartment with the state of the art equipment inrecord time placed Malaysia in a worldclass division for the provision of quality cancertreatment and Nuclear Medicine services.

Dr. Dharmalingam, with his visionary approachto serve the nation, for the first time in medicalhistory introduced the latest of the Megavoltageequipments namely the Linear Accelerators(LINACS) and Betatron for cancer treatment andSimulators for the precise localisation oftumours. As one of the most comprehensiveRadiotherapy facilities in the world, this newRadiotherapy facility included a mould room,complete workshop, a Brachytherapy suite and awell equipped Nuclear Medicine Section.

The uniqueness of this new facility was that inthe sixties (1968) it was one of thefew institutions in the world which had all thestate of the art equipment, clinical laboratory,pharmacy and wards under one roof.This was indeed most convenient for patients whodid not have to go through a maze of corridors toattend to their appointments either in the clinic,

pharmacy, Radiotherapy treatment or laboratory.It was the innate qualities of this visionary doctorcoupled with perseverance to seek, analyse,succeed and implement projects in the interestof the nation and cancer patients that earnedhim the recognition as ‘’Father Of Cancer”.

He lived up to his fatherly reputation amongsthis staff in the Radiotherapy Department. Everydeserving staff from a Consultant to an attendantwas rewarded with scholarships, sponsorships,promotions, and at times he acted as a familycounselor to those who faced domesticchallenges. He cared and shared with one andall in his own unique way. Undoubtedly, he gavea head start in the career of many a doctor,paramedic, nurse and attendant. He paved theway for knowledge, skill and creativity amongsthis staff to achieve par excellence in theirrespective fields. The learning environment hecreated within the department and in the socialsetting was both stimulating and inspiring foreveryone to soar to greater heights of success.

But it was not all work with Dato’. Being a hole-in-one golfer and a keen sportsman heencouraged his staff to play badminton andfootball. Dato’ or Boss as he was hailed (and evenlater when he went into private practice)then displayed such art and craft in his game tothe frustration of his opponents. As always hewas an inspiration and an enigma to hisopponents. Dato’ was intuitively conscious of hisstaff’s idiosyncrasies and needs for selffulfillment. There were times he even had toanswer the spouses for his staff coming homelate after work!

The sports arena was also used for soberdiscussions and trouble shooting ondepartmental matters. Corporate sectorpersonalities too were special guests during thegames.

He was always looking ahead for innovation.Where many feared to venture, Dato’ was thereready with the facts, figures and the plans toexecute his vision and mission. One such visionwas the installation of the first ComputedTomography (CT) Scanner in Malaysia. Amidstmuch controversy, Dato’s dynamism, expertise,and negotiating power impressed the Ministry OfHealth to award the first CT Scanner inMalaysia to be installed in the RadiotherapyDepartment of the General Hospital. Once againDato’ created history in the annals of the MinistryOf Health Malaysia. This is indeed a reflection ofhis dedication and devotion to service for the solebenefit of the nation.

Of course Dato’ was not alone. He was a pillarof strength to his loyal team comprising offlamboyant personalities such as Dr. Yee Sung Tuck,

TRIBUTE TO A LEADERDATO Dr. S. K. DHARMALINGAM3 Dec 1927 – 17 July 2006

(Cont'd on page 19)


INTERNATIONALSOCIETY OFRADIOGRAPHERS& RADIOLOGICALTECHNOLOGISTS

…an international nongovernmentalorganisation in Official Relations with theWorld Health Organisation

Registered Office: 143 Bryn Pinwydden, Cardiff, CF23 7DG, Wales, United KingdomTel. No. 44 (0)29 20735038 Fax No. 44 (0)29 540551 Email [email protected]

ISRRT Election Details

Position Name Country

President Robert George Australia

Director Education Cynthia Cowling Australia

Director Public Relations Fozy Peer South Africa

Director Professional Practice Paivi Wood Finland

* Treasurer Tyrone Goh Singapore

VP Americas Patricia Johnson Barbados

Regional Director Americas Michael Ward USA

VP Europe/Africa Stanley Muscat Malta

Regional Director Europe/Africa Caesar Barare Kenya

VP Asia/Australia Maria Law Hong Kong

Regional Director Asia/Australia Robert Shen Taiwan

Regional Co-ordinators for The Americas

Education Nadia Bugg USA

Public Relations Sean Richardson Barbados

Professional Practice Sharon Wartenbee USA

Regional Coordinators for Europe/Africa

Education Bodil Andersson Sweden

Public Relations Stefano Braico Italy

Professional Practice Dimitris Katsifarakis Greece

Regional Co-ordinators for Asia/Australia

Education Pam Rowntree Australia

* Public Relations Tan Chek Wee Singapore

Professional Practice Stenver Lin Cheng Hsun Taiwan

Nothing can be taught to a man; but it’s possible to help him find the answer within himself.Galileo Galilei – 15th Century Italian physicist, astronomer, astrologer and philosopher


(Cont'd from page 17)

The International Society of Radiographers and Radiological TThe International Society of Radiographers and Radiological TThe International Society of Radiographers and Radiological TThe International Society of Radiographers and Radiological TThe International Society of Radiographers and Radiological Technologists (ISRRT)echnologists (ISRRT)echnologists (ISRRT)echnologists (ISRRT)echnologists (ISRRT)9–13 June 2006: 13th W9–13 June 2006: 13th W9–13 June 2006: 13th W9–13 June 2006: 13th W9–13 June 2006: 13th World Congrorld Congrorld Congrorld Congrorld Congress Denveress Denveress Denveress Denveress Denver, Colorado, Colorado, Colorado, Colorado, Colorado

This year the World Congress was held in the city known as the “MileHigh City” of Denver, Colorado. This name is due to it’s location ofone mile or approximately 1600m above sea level. Colorado state isalso well-known for ski activities in celebrity famous Vail and alsoAspen where the rich and famous jet set and congregate.

This was the meeting place of radiographers and radiologicaltechnologists from all around the world between the 9th till the 13th

of June 2006. Professionals in the fields of radiation therapy andradiology represented over 30 countries at this gathering. We wererepresented by our esteemed President Puan Hjh Salmah Ahmadas a Council Member of the proceedings. There was a turnout of over1000 participants at the conference venue; the Adams Mark Hotelin downtown Denver.

This year’s conference was held in conjunction with the ASRT(American Society of Radiologic Technicians) and the AERT(Association of Educators in the Radiological Sciences) AnnualMeeting.

Some important topics discussed were related to Medico-legalAspects of Imaging Breast Cancer, The Art of Pain Management,Radiological Terrorism and the Role of the Radiologic Technologist,Teaching Digital Radiography, Stereotactic Body Radiation Therapyand Patient Safety.

The Council and Regional meetings were held from the 6th till 8th

of June 2006 with elections for new board members and also regionalcoordinators. The results are on the page preceding this article (page18). We would like to congratulate Dr. Tyrone Goh and Ms. TanChek Wee on their appointment as new Treasurer and RegionalCoordinator for Public Relations respectively for the Asia andAustralasia region.

Dr. Perdamen Singh, Dr. Ganesan, Dr. Mahadeva,the late Dr. Narashima, Dr. Sundram, Dr. TanMeng Kuan, Dr. Lopez, Dr. Sreenivasan, Dr.Roslan, Dr. Albert Lim, Dr. Krishnamoorthy, Mr.John Jayakar, Mr. Tony Ng, Mr. Wong Jin Tin,Mr. Pakrisamy, Mr. Joseph, Mr. Fam, Mr. Kula,En. Ismail, En. Mohd. Noor and of course my selftoo. He raised us all as one big extended familyshowering us with endless rewards. The team henurtured stood by him like the rock of Gibraltar.

The Institute of Radiotherapy, Nuclear Medicineand Oncology is just one testimony of Dato’smany visions for the nation. His outstanding entrepreneurial leadership and corporatenetworking paved the way for the establishmentof the National Cancer Society Building underthe auspices of the Malaysian government, Dato’Harun, the then Mentri Besar of Selangor, Dato’W T Kiat and many other philanthropists. As theSecretary of the Selangor Branch, I also acted asa part-time “clerk of works” in the constructionof the building under the direction of Dato’.

The Cancer Treatment Centre in Tung ShinHospital is another of his brainchild tocompliment the efforts of the government toprovide adequate cancer treatment facilities forMalaysians. In a selfless way Dato’ has leftnothing unturned for the benefit of many to comein the future years. His faith in Mr. AnthonySkelchy, Dr. Selva, Dr. Kamal, Dr. Lam, Dr.

Tan, Mdm. Indra, Mr. Govan, Mr. Tony Ng, Mr.Kula, Ms. Sue Pan, Ms. Gina Gallyot and Ms.Sripriya Manoharan and the other radiationtherapists and staff will take the Society togreater heights.

Dharma as he is fondly addressed by his closeassociates is here to stay, as his name impliesin Sanskrit’’ The Way of Higher Truths” becausethe truth does not perish. His beloved wife,children and grandchildren will miss Dato’ butthe legacy he leaves behind will never beerased from their minds. A person, who livestheir life with an understanding of this naturallaw, is a “dharmmic” person, which is oftentranslated as ”righteousness”. In the fifteen yearsthat I served him, he moulded me to look beyondthe obvious and experience peace, love, truth,righteousness and non violence within me.

He has brought time to a standstill. He cannotbe replaced. An era has passed as though its endof time. But in our hearts we will replay andrevive the past glories toperpetuate the golden memoriesof Dato Dr. S. K. Dharmalingam.

In the service of Dharma,T. [email protected]


In RememberanceIn Rememberance

Malaysia’s first oncologist,founder member andpresident of the NationalCancer Society Malaysia(NCSM) Dato Dr. S. K.Dharmalingam passed awayon 17th August 2006. Hewas 77. Dr Dharmalingam,remembered by many for

pioneering cancer treatment in Malaysia, suffereda heart attack in March and was in a coma untilhis death. NCSM vice-president AnthonySkelchy, who had worked with Dr Dharmalingamfor 40 years, said: “He is synonymous with theNCSM. From nothing, the NCSM now has aCancer Treatment Centre in Tung Shin Hospital,Women’s Cancer Detection Clinic, the NuclearMedicine Centre and a home for children withcancer.” ”He left a wonderful legacy,” he said. Head of the Malaysian Oncological Society DrGucharan Singh said when Dr Dharmalingamheaded the Hospital Kuala Lumpur radiotherapy/oncology department from 1962 until he retiredin 1982; the hospital was on the select list fortraining of the Royal College of Radiology ofBritain. He established the first MammographyScreening Centre in South-East Asia andintroduced uterine cancer screening. DrDharmalingam was also founder president of theMalaysian Oncology Society, vice-president of theAsian-Oceania Clinical Oncology Society andfounder president of the Malaysian RadiologicalSociety.

MESSAGES FROMACROSS THE GLOBE

Regret to hear this news. We are in the periodwhere we are losing many of the earlypioneers who did so much excellent work inestablishing diagnostic and therapydepartments around the worldRob George, President, InternationalSociety of Radiographers and RadiologicalTechnologists

This is noted with sadness by the NewZealand Institute of Medical RadiationTechnologyDavid Morris, General Secretary NZIMRT

Indian Association of RadiologicalTechnologists (IART) deeply mourns the saddemise of Dato Dr. S. K. Dharmalingam. It isa tragic loss to the whole society. We pray thatGOD ALMIGHTY WILL GRANT PEACE TO THEDEPARTED SOUL.S.C. Bansal

We are very sorry to hear of the firstoncologist’s death. On behalf of KoreanRadiological Technologists Association (KRTA),I would like to commiserate with you and yoursociety on the loss of your pioneer. We willalways remember what he has done inRadiological field.Ho NamKoong. R.T. Vice-Director ofInternational Affairs,KRTA, MRI Center, Department ofDiagnostic Radiology,Seoul National University Hospital

“Throughout the centuries there were men who took first steps,down new roads, armed with nothing but their own vision”-

A quote from Ms. Ayn Rand, a Russian philosopher and novelist.

The express goal of Ms. Rand’s fiction was to showcase the idealizedhero, a man whose ability and independence causes conflict withsociety, but who nevertheless perseveres to achieve his goals.

Dato’ Dharma was the living testimony of this ideal.

DATO Dr. S. K. DHARMALINGAM3 Dec 1927 – 17 July 2006

Affiliated to The International Society of Radiographers and …msradiographer.org/wp-content/uploads/2013/12/200609.pdf · 2013-12-26 · Azim Hashim Premji (born July 24, 1945)

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