For going the distance in the dermatology field by contributing to outstanding patient care and mentorship to emerging healthcare professionals, Clinical Professor Tay Yong Kwang was inducted into the prestigious Duke-NUS Hall of Master Academic Clinicians.
 

Clin Prof Tay at the 2025 induction ceremony for the Duke-NUS Hall of Master Academic Clinicians.

By Ms Belinda Wan, CGH

With an illustrious 35-year career devoted to enhancing patient outcomes and advancing the field of dermatology through research and medical education, Clin Prof Tay Yong Kwang, Senior Consultant, Department of Dermatology, Changi General Hospital (CGH), was conferred the title of Master Academic Clinician, in recognition of his mastery of clinical competence, and exemplary standards of professionalism and excellence in academic activities.

“Back in the ’90s, dermatology was not exactly a popular discipline. But I found the diagnostics fascinating,” Clin Prof Tay recalls. “I was at the right place at the right time.”

Since then, the field of dermatology has evolved considerably. Today, new technologies and medical advances for dermatology have emerged, including lasers, energy-based devices, Mohs micrographic surgery, Botox and fillers.

With a passion for lifelong learning, the former Head of the CGH Dermatology department stays up to date on developments in the specialty. “As clinicians, we want the best for our patients,” he says. “This can be achieved by keeping up with the literature, as well as attending conferences and workshops to stay abreast of medical advances, acquire new skills and knowledge, and gain experience,” says Clin Prof Tay.

The Dermatology Service expanded into the Department of Dermatology under Clin Prof Tay’s leadership at CGH from 2002 to 2012.

Dedicated to patient safety and quality care, Clin Prof Tay has co-chaired CGH’s Radiation Safety Committee since 2005 to promote best practices in radiation use. He also serves as CGH’s Laser Safety Officer, overseeing the hospital’s laser safety programme, ensuring both staff and patient safety.

A prolific researcher, he has penned over 200 publications in peer-reviewed journals from Singapore and abroad, and presented at numerous conferences and seminars. 

He coordinated, analysed and co-wrote the paper The prevalence and descriptive epidemiology of atopic dermatitis in Singapore school children for The British Journal of Dermatology in 2002, and is the Principal investigator at CGH for the Health Sciences Authority (HSA) study on Severe Cutaneous Adverse Drug Eruption (SCARS).

In 2023 and 2024, Clin Prof Tay was named one of the World’s Top 2% Most Cited Scientists with Career-Long Impact by Stanford University and Elsevier — a testament to his influence and dedication to advancing the field of dermatology.

Clin Prof Tay was presented the CGH SAGE Award by Clin Prof Ng Kee Chong, CEO, CGH, in 2023. The award recognises outstanding educators and mentors, highlighting their contributions to academic pursuits and clinical practice.

Actively involved in medical education at the undergraduate and residency levels, Clin Prof Tay has mentored generations of healthcare professionals.

His commitment and contributions to medical education have earned him accolades, including the Special Commendation Award for dedicated contribution to SingHealth Residency, the SAGE Award at the CGH Educator Award in 2023, and the Distinguished Mentor Award at the 2021 SingHealth Excellence Awards.

Dr Tan Ki Wei, Head and Senior Consultant, Department of Dermatology, CGH, who used to be a trainee under Clin Prof Tay when he was heading the department, says, “Clin Prof Tay is not only a well-known and highly regarded expert clinician, but a passionate and highly respected clinical teacher.”

Clin Prof Tay’s deep interest in academic pursuits has enabled him to remain at the forefront of dermatology. Since 2010, he has attended local and international seminars and lectureships to broaden his scope of knowledge and share his expertise. Clin Prof Tay has also collaborated with overseas and local institutions, such as the HSA and SingHealth, on various studies.

A specialist in dermatologic laser surgery and paediatric dermatology, his opinions are sought locally and internationally.

Zealous about making a difference in the healthcare landscape, Clin Prof Tay has helmed key roles in the Ministry of Health (MOH), HSA, and Joint Committee on Specialist Training (JCST), and is actively involved in various local and international professional bodies. This includes chairing the Dermatological Society of Singapore’s atopic dermatitis expert workgroup, contributing to the MOH Aesthetic Practices Working Committee that develops regulations for aesthetic practices, and serving on the HSA expert panel to advise on medications related to dermatology.

“Clin Prof Tay is dedicated to both patient care and teaching, and is determined to give his very best to ensure the best outcome for his patients and students,” adds Dr Tan. “He built up the dermatology department at CGH, and played a big part in overseeing its progress and growth into what is now the second-largest dermatology department in Singapore.”

Reflecting on his clinical and academic journey, Clin Prof Tay cites patience, persistence, humility and an open mind as essential qualities for clinicians. Explaining that academic pursuits and clinical work are intertwined, and help to make one a better doctor, he adds, “We must be at the forefront and know what’s happening in the field. It is easy to fall behind as one can never learn enough.

“So never give up on your clinical work. But take things one step at a time. Time is needed and this cannot be rushed,” he says. “Experience begets experience. Take time to practise self-love and do take care of yourself.”