SINGAPORE – Andrew Chim, a former government scholar, has ventured into the healthcare business as a co-owner and director of four general practitioner clinics, despite not being a doctor himself.
Chim co-founded the I-Health clinics with a friend, a doctor, and his friend’s wife, a nurse. The decision stemmed from Chim’s desire to create a healthcare environment that prioritized service quality and effective communication with patients.
His inspiration for this venture began during a personal health struggle in his 20s. Chim visited several clinics during his illness, but he was disappointed by the low level of patient care and communication. “Many doctors are trained to be clinical in their diagnosis but not trained to be communicative. I wanted clinics where doctors are emotionally intelligent and can earn patients’ trust,” Chim shared. To address this gap, I-Health offers training for both staff and doctors on patient-centered care.
The first I-Health clinic opened in Boon Keng in 2019. Since then, the network has expanded to include locations in Yishun and Serangoon North. In July, a fourth clinic will open in Tampines.
At 38, Chim’s drive stems from a challenging upbringing. During his teenage years, his family faced financial hardship when his father’s business failed, nearly resulting in the loss of their home. The situation worsened several years later when his father was diagnosed with cancer and passed away when Chim was just 25 and serving in national service. These experiences have shaped his approach to life and his commitment to improving healthcare service.
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