The last shining star of 2023 is a woman with a strong personality. The agility and decisiveness in the work of Ms Nguyen Vu Ha Vy (Medical Secretary) are among the abilities that earned her the award of FV Shining Star.

Though her journey did not begin as a professional medical secretary, Ha Vy’s experiences from the lecture hall to practical work in the hospitality industry, facilitated a smooth transition for her role at FV. Over the span of more than 4 years, she contributed her skills to FV Lifestyle and later to Neurosurgery Department. Ms Vy recalls “The transition period was the most stressful for me; everything felt like starting over, and almost every day, I had to work very late to complete tasks”.

To date, the challenges, unfamiliarity, and the pressure of gaining medical knowledge, including the distinction between ‘customers receiving services and patients receiving treatment’ has been skilfully managed by Ms Vy; “I worked hard, but at that time, I thought it would only be a temporary attachment to the hospital”. However, as the years passed and the stress subsided, she has gradually gained insights for the surgical specialty and built up her love for the job.

Ms Vy believes that directing her work towards the community, from the small task of scheduling appointments for patients to more significant responsibilities such as aiding planning procedures, explaining processes and treatment schedules, has helped her sharpen her work. The medical environment has cultivated positivity and empathy in Ha Vy regarding delivering practical values to the people around her, even when sometimes it is a monotonous task.

“For patients, when I extend help and kindness, the response also makes my job more meaningful and easier”, Ms Vy said; her resilience to follow a task to the end has been recognised as one of Ms Vy’s strengths. She employs this strength to connect patients with their treatment plans, organise the doctors, and, importantly, create a “connection” between the patient and the doctor, fostering harmony creating a gentle rhythm in examination and treatment activities.

No one likes to bring work into their personal life. However, in the midst of the most ordinary hours of a day, a helping hand, a thank you, or a patient’s healthy smile may occupy the thoughts of this young medical secretary. Perhaps this is the most fascinating way in which hospital jobs integrate into people’s daily lives. Joy and happiness sometimes come from simple tasks, through a medical appointment, and sometimes from shared conversations.

The Shining Star of December 2023 may be a young individual. However, her achievement has been well earned following two previous nominations. This is an undeniably lovely “honour gift” for Ms Vy. We wish that you continue your youthful enthusiasm in life and continue to find meaningful joy in your work.