Mount Elizabeth Hospital (MEH) is in the process of its first-ever major refurbishment, a project aimed at enhancing its facilities and services to serve patients better. While the hospital is upgraded, Mr Yong Yih Ming, Chief Executive Officer of MEH, also finds it crucial to remember the efforts and dedication of the previous generation of doctors and surgeons. Therefore, he invited existing doctors to donate items of history and/or legacy. This reminds us of our dedication to our patients and aims to inspire future generations of doctors and healthcare professionals.
Dr Helena Lee, periodontist, donated an antique dental weighing scale used by her father, the late Dr Henry Lee. He was a well-respected oral surgeon in Singapore and founder of Henry Lee Dental Surgery (HLDS). HLDS was the second clinic to open its doors at Mount Elizabeth Medical Centre in 1979. Dr Helena Lee shared that she is grateful to Dr Ansgar Cheng for safekeeping this antique dental weighing scale at his residence for many years.
HLDS was renamed to Specialist Dental Group in 2008 to better reflect the breadth and depth of the clinical team.
This weighing scale holds special significance as Dr Henry Lee used it to weigh gold while making dental crowns. This serves as a testament to his meticulous attention to detail and commitment to providing the best possible dental care.
For now, this antique weighing scale is on display at Mount Elizabeth Hospital’s linkway (patient lift lobby @ Block B, Level 2). We invite all patients, colleagues, and visitors to take a moment to appreciate the history encapsulated within this humble scale.
As we look ahead, let us honour the pioneers like Dr Henry Lee who have paved the way for us. With gratitude for the past and excitement for the future, we continue our journey toward excellence in dental care.