The gift of hearing can often be overlooked until difficulties arise. For individuals grappling with hearing loss or balance disorders, it is a daily challenge that affects their ability to connect, communicate, and participate in life’s simple pleasures. By restoring hearing and balance, audiologists help patients rediscover confidence, connection, and quality of life.

Beyond fitting hearing aids, audiologists treat complex conditions like vestibular disorders, offering critical assessments and rehabilitation for those battling dizziness and balance issues. It is a specialised, patient-centred profession where every case presents a unique story and opportunity to make a difference.

Recognising the need for skilled professionals in these specialised areas, the MOH Holdings (MOHH) offers the Healthcare Graduate Studies Award (HGSA)—a prestigious postgraduate scholarship for individuals passionate about serving in Singapore’s public healthcare system. This scholarship empowers individuals to build meaningful careers in Singapore’s public healthcare system.

Among the many who have benefitted from the scholarship is Lee Si Ting, a Senior Audiologist with Ng Teng Fong General Hospital (NTFGH).

Heeding the Call

For Si Ting, her decision to pursue audiology was ignited by a moving experience within her own family. “My cousin is hearing impaired, and I witnessed her transformation firsthand,” she shared.

She recalled how her cousin struggled with communication in her early years, often feeling isolated. But with early intervention and the guidance of dedicated audiologists, her cousin gradually gained confidence and flourished. “That journey left a strong impression on me and sparked a deep curiosity about the role audiologists play in changing lives. Audiology is a perfect fit for me—it combines meaningful human interaction with the technical aspects of adjusting equipment to make a real difference,” she elaborated.

A Path Made Clear

After graduating with a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Life Sciences from the National University of Singapore (NUS), Si Ting was clear about her desire to enter healthcare. It was during her undergraduate years that she encountered the opportunity that would eventually chart her professional path.

“In my third year, I attended an open house for the Master of Audiology course at NUS, where I learned about the programme, career prospects, and available scholarships,” she recounted. That was when the HGSA caught her attention. Beyond financial support, the scholarship opened doors to meaningful connections and industry insights.

“The HGSA is helpful in allowing me to interact with audiologists from various fields through networking events and healthcare seminars. This experience solidified my interest in audiology, as it allowed me to observe how audiologists make a meaningful difference in patients’ lives without being involved in procedures that involve pain or blood,” she said.

The scholarship provided more than just funding; it nurtured her personal and professional growth. “Knowing that I had earned the scholarship also boosted my confidence and reinforced my commitment to audiology,” she reflected.

The award also provided access to specialised training, networking opportunities, and invaluable mentorship—all of which shaped her career trajectory and clinical expertise.

Tuned to Her Calling

Today, as a Senior Audiologist at NTFGH, Si Ting’s work is as varied as it is impactful. “We conduct hearing assessments and hearing device evaluations, ensuring that patients receive a thorough analysis to address their hearing and communication needs,” she explained.

Her primary area of specialisation lies in vestibular disorders. “I conduct balance assessments to diagnose patients with dizziness or balance issues, often working with individuals who have complex cases,” she noted.

This includes attending specialised vestibular clinics, collaborating with Otolaryngology - Head & Neck Surgery (ENT) doctors and physiotherapists to devise holistic care plans. Si Ting also plays a vital role in mentoring junior audiologists, nurturing the next generation of healthcare professionals.

Through her work, Si Ting has witnessed how tailored audiological care can transform lives. One particularly memorable case involved a patient whose persistent dizziness had left her housebound and emotionally distressed for years. “Following a thorough evaluation and consultation at the vestibular clinic, she was diagnosed and given a personalised rehabilitation plan. Over time, she made remarkable improvement—not only physically, but emotionally as well,” she recalled. The patient eventually returned to work and resumed an active social life, a transformation Si Ting describes as one of the most fulfilling moments of her career.

Championing Awareness and Compassionate Care

Si Ting believes that audiology is often misunderstood, with persistent misconceptions about hearing loss and its treatment. “One common misconception I often encounter is the belief that hearing loss is just a normal part of ageing and something we should simply accept and live with,” she shared.

A strong advocate for early intervention and public awareness, she emphasises that hearing loss is often treatable: “Most types of hearing loss can be effectively rehabilitated with the appropriate use of hearing devices such as hearing aids or cochlear implants. These interventions can significantly improve a person’s quality of life, communication, and even safety in daily activities.”

Grateful for the supportive environment at the National University Health System (NUHS), which NTFGH is part of, Si Ting remains committed to deepening her expertise in vestibular and hearing rehabilitation. “I’ve been able to choose a specialisation that aligns with my interests, and I’m constantly encouraged to learn and improve through hands-on clinical experience and mentorship,” she said.

Looking ahead, she hopes to take on larger roles in mentoring and service development in the near future. “I see myself not only growing as a clinician but also playing a part in shaping the future of audiology within NTFGH,” she expressed.

Advice for Aspiring Audiologists

For those considering a career in audiology, Si Ting offers heartfelt advice. “Audiology is a rewarding and impactful career, especially for those who are passionate about healthcare, fascinated by the science of hearing, and driven to make a tangible difference in people’s lives,” she said.

She also reminds aspiring scholars that while audiologists work with advanced technology, interpersonal skills, empathy, and clear communication are equally essential. “With dedication and the right training, audiology offers a stable and deeply fulfilling career in a niche but steadily developing area of healthcare,” she concluded.