A day in the life of a Data Scientist at MOHT

A Day in the Life at MOHT series

One of MOHT’s strengths stems from having a pool of talents from diverse backgrounds, facilitating the cross-diffusion of learning and insights within the organisation and across the ecosystem.

“A Day in the Life at MOHT” is a MOHT blog series where featured colleagues relate how their individual talent, experience and practice has enriched MOHT’s tapestry of contributions towards the transformation of Singapore’s healthcare.

In the seventh edition, we look at a day in the life of data scientist, Phang Ye Sheng from the Data Science & Technology team at MOHT.

Contributed by Phang Ye Sheng

An Exploratory Foray into Healthcare

Though I’m currently a data scientist at MOHT, my professional journey has been anything but linear. I studied biomedical engineering in my undergraduate days at the National University Of Singapore (NUS) with the ambition to contribute in ways that could benefit people through healthcare. Along the way, I pivoted to machine learning while doing my Master’s degree in computer science. My rationale is this: I can still contribute to healthcare by building machine learning and artificial intelligence systems. Upon graduation, I started working at MOHT’s Data Science and Technology team, where my role intersects data, AI, and digital health. I’ve been with MOHT for about four years now, leading the data analysis and AI integration efforts for various projects, including our youth mental health initiatives – Let’s Talk and mindline.sg. What started out as an exploratory foray into healthcare is fast turning into what might become a lifelong vocation.

My journey into Data Science and Technology

My journey with MOHT actually began back in 2018 when I interned with the Data Science and Technology team under MOHT’s Chief Technology Strategist Prof Robert Morris and my reporting officer Dr Wijaya. I was inspired by their vision of leveraging cutting-edge technology to address healthcare challenges in the real world. One example was the HOPES programme, which used technology and a blend of active and passive data to help schizophrenic patients navigate with their daily lives. The experience left a strong impression on me, and it was a major reason why I decided to return to MOHT after completing my studies in 2020. It’s been a challenging yet rewarding journey, and I’m grateful for the opportunity to contribute to meaningful projects from the very start.

As a fresh graduate, I was drawn to the unique opportunity at MOHT to harness technology for public good. The organisation’s mission to address system-level challenges in Singapore’s healthcare system by developing, validating and scaling transformative care models resonated with my interests in data science and machine learning. MOHT’s vision of a patient-centred and data-driven healthcare system enabled by predictive personalised care meant that I have a chance to work on projects that have tangible impacts on people’s lives.

What My Day Looks Like

Every day at MOHT brings something new, from developing AI-powered tools to analysing data trends to improve mental health interventions. My primary projects include working on youth mental health platforms Let’s Talk and mindline.sg, where I manage the data pipeline and analytics that help our mental health team understand user behaviour, engagement rate, and the types of support youths seek. I work closely with MOHT’s mental health professionals, project managers, and data engineers to ensure that our analytics and AI tools provide actionable insights and support in meaningful ways.

A typical day might involve reviewing data from the forum to identify trends, updating an AI model we’ve developed to detect feedback in forum posts, or collaborating with our developers to improve backend systems for managing data securely and efficiently.

Bringing My Skills into Healthcare

Although my background is in data science and engineering, I’ve found that these skills transfer well into the healthcare context. The discipline to structure and analyse data, thanks to my academic foundation, has been especially useful in designing AI tools that support users on the Let’s Talk forum. For instance, we have been experimenting with and developing LLM-based applications (Large Language Model powered application) designed to support and train mental health workers such as counsellors, helpline volunteers, and therapists. One of these innovations is the “dual dialogue system”, which utilises various machine learning techniques to act as a “buddy” for mental health professionals. The system aims to reduce their cognitive load when managing clients by providing real-time recommendations, suggested actions, and surfacing up-to-date, relevant resources in a timely manner. This project leverages both human and machine intelligence to create a seamless support experience for our mental health teams.

mindline.sg visioning workshop

Represented mindline.sg at the Online Trust And Safety Forum 2024

Healthcare Transformation is a Roller Coaster Ride

One of the upsides of my role is seeing the direct impact our projects have on people’s lives. Healthcare transformation isn’t just about implementing new technologies; it’s also about understanding the users—their needs, preferences, and challenges. By constantly analysing feedback and tracking engagement on Let’s Talk, we are able to continuously adapt and improve the platform, ensuring it meets the needs of young people seeking support.

With every job, there will be bright spots, and downsides. For me, one of the prevailing challenges is safeguarding sensitive data and maintaining user privacy. I’m fortunate to work with an expert team of engineers and data analysts dedicated to ensuring user safety and confidentiality. We embrace learning and continually refine our approaches.

Giving Back to Society

Apart from my “day job” as a data scientist, I’m a member of the Culture and Collaboration staff committee, in charge of driving MOHT’s CSR endeavours. One of my most memorable experiences was organising our inaugural charity event with the Thye Hua Kwan (THK) Home for Disabled Adults last year. My teammates and I planned and executed a donation drive, followed by an outing to Gardens by the Bay for the residents and staff of THK Home. It was a fun and unforgettable day, filled with laughter and meaningful interactions.

In a very short time, we raised more than $6,000 which went into purchasing essential items for the residents, such as nutritional supplements and art supplies. By fundraising norms, $6,000 may not be a big deal, but to me, it was immense because it was a first for me. The effort was a true testament to the generosity and compassion of our colleagues. What’s even better: our very first charity event was such a hit the bosses have decided to make it a mainstay at MOHT so we’ll be looking at adopting new charities in the years ahead! We have recently completed our second CSR event – in partnership with Vanguard Healthcare.

Looking Ahead

As I look to the future, I’m excited about the potential for data science and AI to transform healthcare, particularly in the mental health space. I’m proud to be part of an organisation where we embrace both innovation and user-centred design, continuously refining our solutions based on feedback and evolving needs.
If you’re someone who wants to make a real difference in the healthcare sector, MOHT offers a unique environment where diverse talents can thrive, collaborate, and drive meaningful change. Every day brings fresh challenges and new opportunities to learn, innovate, and contribute to the well-being of our community.

Photos taken at MOHT’s CSR event 2024