Life in the Emergency Room, Meet Dr Lim, Medical Officer

06 March 2025

When Dr Lim Jinn Yih chose to be an ER doctor, he knew the job would be fast-paced, stressful. But nothing prepared him for the challenges of a global pandemic or the daily pressure of saving lives. 

Now, as a Resident Medical Officer at Sunway Medical Centre, he looks back on his journey, the lessons learned, and how he balances work and family. 

Facing COVID-19 as an ER Doctor

The COVID-19 pandemic changed Dr Lim’s career forever. He was assigned to Sungai Buloh Hospital during the pandemic. 

“We see hundreds of people die every day. The hospital was overwhelmed, and the ICU beds were full,” he recalls. 

At that time, doctors had no clear treatment for the virus. They could only give supportive care and hope for the best.  

“We knew we couldn’t save everyone, but we did everything we could,” he says. The long hours, wearing full PPE, and seeing patients struggle was tough. However, he considered it a once-in-a-lifetime experience that shaped him as a doctor. 

Saving Lives in the Emergency Room

For Dr Lim, the thrill in the accident & emergency room was what attracted him. “I don’t see myself in a primary specialty like orthopaedics or internal medicine. I like the adrenaline rush of emergency cases,” he shares. From heart attacks to critical injuries, no two days are ever the same. 

While emergency medicine comes with its share of stress, it also offers moments of deep satisfaction. Dr Lim recalls a young man who came in with mild chest discomfort. It doesn’t seem like it was anything serious. 

“After working in the emergency for so many years, I’ve developed a form of sixth sense. Something didn’t feel right, so I ordered further tests. It turned out his lung was collapsing. If we hadn’t caught it, he could have died suddenly.”

It’s cases like these that remind him why he loves his job. “Working in the emergency department is about ruling out life-threatening conditions. You have to assume the worst until proven otherwise.”

The Biggest Challenge as a Medical Officer in Malaysia

One of the biggest challenges isn’t just treating patients, it’s handling their families. “Many times, families are in denial about the seriousness of a situation,” Dr Lim explains. “They bring in their loved one expecting a simple check-up, only to hear that the condition is critical. That’s when emotions run high.”

Clear communication is key. “We need to be direct, kind, and firm at the same time. Some families don’t believe their loved one needs urgent care. Others think we’re pushing tests just for profit. It’s frustrating, but recognising their stress helps us handle the situation better.”

Life Beyond Emergency Room

After years of long hours, Dr Lim decided to put his family first. “I was halfway through my master’s when I realised I didn’t want to miss my daughter’s childhood,” he says. Instead of pursuing a specialist path, he switched to private practice. This gives him more control over his schedule. 

“I finally have time for my family,” he shares. “On my days off, I take my daughter to indoor playgrounds, go on short trips, and just be there for her. Balancing work and family is tiring, but it’s incredibly rewarding.”

His Advice for Future Medical Doctors

For those considering a career as an ER doctor, Dr Lim offers simple yet powerful advice. “Do your best. Your best is good enough.” 

Despite the challenges, he wouldn’t have it any other way. “Yes, it’s stressful, but I can handle it. And at the end of the day, knowing that I’ve made a difference, it’s worth it.”

Thank you, Dr Lim for sharing your journey. Your dedication and passion for your work serve as an inspiration to many.

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