The Musicians' Clinic @ YST
Next week marks one year since The Musicians’ Clinic was set up! We have been so fortunate to have Dr June Tan Sheren offer her services, pro-bono*, to our students at YST. The only Family Physician (GP) in Singapore formally qualified in the field of Performing Arts Medicine (PAM) with a Master’s degree with distinction in PAM from University College London, and a hobbyist musician who plays both the piano and cello, Dr June truly empathises with our students when they share with her their physical or mental health concerns.
PAM is a branch of medicine catered specifically for performing artists. “It deals with conditions that impact a performing artist’s ability to perform at their highest level - for example injuries, unique medical problems, psychological issues, etc - with the aim of returning the individual as soon as possible to that desired level. By professional performers’ standards, this usually means perfection.” (Taken from Osler Health International website where Dr June runs The Musicians’ Clinic)
Dr June provides consultations for:
playing-related musculoskeletal disorders (any pain, weakness, numbness, tingling or other symptoms that affect instrument playing)
vocal problems in voice students
mental health issues (stress, anxiety, depression, performance anxiety or other psychological issues that affect performance)
other health symptoms or complaints that interfere with the ability to play one’s instrument or perform
advice on healthy practice, lifestyle and preventive care
advice on investigations (e.g. laboratory tests, radiological imaging – X-rays, scans etc) if necessary
referrals if needed for specialist care and/or support services (e.g. physiotherapy, psychotherapy, nutritionist etc)
The clinic runs monthly during the NUS academic calendar and the first session of 2024 takes place next Wednesday, 10th Jan 2024, 9.30am - 12.30pm. Please note that consultations are by appointment only and appointments should be made by contacting the clinic directly, either online or by phone.
*charges only apply to medications or investigations (blood tets, X-rays, etc.) that may be necessary and Dr June will advise on the most cost-effective options available
“Musicians’ health issues can be complex, and the healthcare system in Singapore can be tough to navigate. I will help you unravel the issues and provide advice on solutions and treatment. I seek to provide students a safe space to discuss their problems – medical confidentiality is assured and safeguarded.” – Dr June