A Medway doctor praised for exceptional care, including helping to diagnose a rare condition in one young patient, has been named a finalist for Medway Maritime Hospital’s Hospital Hero Award.
Dr Surendra Singham, a paediatrician at the hospital, run by Medway NHS Foundation Trust, was nominated by two families who praised the real difference his exceptional care and compassion made to their children.
The two-year-old girl was admitted while Dr Singham was on call, presenting with complex symptoms outside his specialist area of respiratory medicine, cystic fibrosis and allergy. He recognised signs of a condition which impacts the body’s ability to absorb nutrients from food, began urgent treatment and arranged further investigations with specialists at King’s College Hospital.
Her family praised his quick thinking, adding: “Without him, she might not be here today. He answered all our questions and went above and beyond to support our whole family with kindness and respect.”
Another nomination recognised his thorough and caring approach to assessment and ongoing support for children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). It states: “Dr Singham was patient and reassuring with my son, who has severe ADHD, keeping him calm and engaged. He quickly resolved a medication issue by contacting our GP, saving us a return visit. We’re very grateful for his support.”
Reflecting on the case, Dr Singham, who has worked at the Trust since 1999, praised the efforts of both colleagues and the patient’s family. He said: “It’s always a team effort. We work closely with our colleagues here and with specialist centres like King’s. I’m just pleased the young patient is now doing well, that’s what matters most.”
Dr Singham said he was surprised but deeply touched to be nominated for the award. He added: “I think any of my colleagues would have done the same. We all share the same goal, to do the best we can for our patients.”
Dr Singham is one of four hospital staff shortlisted for the Hospital Hero Award, which received 78 nominations and is the only one of the Trust’s annual Star Awards nominated by members of the public. The winner will be announced at the Trust’s annual Star Awards ceremony on Thursday 16 July.
Read more about Hospital Hero finalist – Annie Huxtable, Play Specialist.
