Day 2 - Main Program TIMA Global Forum 2025

Day 2 – Main Program TIMA Global Forum 2025

TIME

07:30am – 8:00am

Registration

08:00am – 10:00am

Main Plenary

TIMA Australia in Action – Looking Back and the Journey Forward

Tzu Chi’s humanistic medical model will take centre stage in this session, reflecting on the impactful contributions of the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) in Australia while exploring future opportunities to advance compassionate care. Representatives from Tzu Chi Foundation branches across the country will share achievements from past projects, valuable insights, and strategies to shape the path forward in medical missions.

Key topics include:

Experiences and insights from TIMA volunteering projects in Australia.
Strategies for fostering partnerships and collaborations in medical missions.
An exploration of the humanistic medical model and its application in diverse healthcare settings.

Healthcare professionals, as well as clinical and non-clinical volunteers, are invited as we learn more about TIMA’s work and contribute to its mission of compassionate care.

Presenters:

TIMA Brisbane representative
TIMA Sydney representative
TIMA Perth representative
TIMA Melbourne representative
Partnership to form Inclusive Health & Wellness Hub representative

TIMA Australia and Tzu Chi Australia’s Medical Mission

The Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) Australia conducts regular dental and medical fairs aimed at providing free healthcare services to underserved communities across Australia: Brisbane, Sydney, Perth, and Melbourne. The fairs are supported by community volunteers and a dedicated team of healthcare professionals from different backgrounds, including medical, dental, allied health, nursing, and Chinese Medicine, who offer their time and expertise to serve the local community. Special efforts are made to reach out to remote or rural communities where healthcare resources may be scarce.

These dental and medical fairs play a crucial role in bridging healthcare gaps and promoting wellbeing among Australia’s most vulnerable populations.

Tzu Chi Australia partnered with Micah Projects to establish the Inclusive Health and Wellness Hub in Brisbane, in 2017, aimed at addressing the broader health and wellness needs of disadvantaged individuals. With the objective to provide integrated healthcare and wellness services in a safe, inclusive, and supportive environment, it offers services including general medical care, mental health support, oral health care and allied health services, as well as education and programs promoting preventive health and well-being. It is tailored to meet the needs of diverse groups, including refugees, indigenous Australians, and low-income families.

These initiatives highlight Tzu Chi Australia’s commitment to promoting equitable access to healthcare and fostering community well-being through collaboration with local organisations through compassionate service.

10:00am – 10:30am

Morning Tea Break

10:30am – 12:30pm

Four Parallel Sessions

Panel Discussion: iHealth Promotion – Research, Sustainability & Implementation

Innovative, research-driven strategies for sustainable health promotion will be explored in this session, with a focus on practical implementation and real-world impact. Experts from diverse fields will share their experiences, offering a comprehensive perspective on advancing modern health promotion initiatives.

Healthcare professionals, public health practitioners, and researchers are warmly welcome to join us as we advance our understanding of sustainable health promotion practices.

Presenters:

Dr Ming-Nan Lin, 大林慈濟醫院林名男副院長 Deputy Superintendent, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Taiwan;
Prof. Loc Do, Research Chair & Professor in Dental Public Health, School of Dentistry, the University of Queensland;
Ms. Aiko Nagae, Post Graduate Master of Public Health student, Griffith University

Moderator: Prof. Cordia Chu, Director of The Centre for Environment & Population Health, School of Medicine and Dentistry, Griffith University

Dr Ming-Nan Lin, MD, MPH 林名男副院長

Vice Superintendent, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Taiwan
Family Medicine Practitioner
Chair of the Task Force on Health Promoting Hospital & Environment (International Network of HPH & Health Services)

Day 2 – Main Program TIMA Global Forum 2025

Dr. Ming-Nan Lin is currently the Vice Superintendent at Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, Tzu Chi Medical Foundation, Taiwan. He has a Master’s degree in public health and has devoted himself to community outreach and international disaster relief. He is also in charge of the green hospital programs at the Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital, which won the 2013 International Environment-Friendly Hospital Teamwork Best Practice Award from the International Network of Health Promoting Hospitals and a gold medal in leadership of Health Care Climate Challenge 2020 by Global Green and the Healthy Hospital Network.

Professor Loc Do

BDS, MScDent, PhD

Research Chair & Professor in Dental Public Health
School of Dentistry

Professor Loc Do is currently Director of Research at the School of Dentistry, University of Queensland. He is a dentist and an oral epidemiologist with a special interest in social and clinical oral epidemiology. He completed his PhD in Oral Epidemiology at the University of Adelaide. He was a lead investigator in the National Child Oral Health Study 2012-14 and the National Study of Adult Oral Health 2017-19.

Research funding: Currently, he is the Chief Investigator A of four major NHMRC- and MRFF-funded research projects: a population-based birth cohort study investigating the impact of socioeconomic inequality on child oral health, a longitudinal study investigating the effect of early life exposure to fluoride, a study to investigate the effectiveness of water fluoridation in Queensland, and a study to develop and implement a package to improve oral health in residents of Aged Care Facilities in Queensland and NSW.

Research Interests: Oral epidemiological measurement of dental diseases Quantitative analysis of oral epidemiological data including multilevel analysis Risk and benefit trade-off in the use of fluorides in children Natural history of dental fluorosis Socio-economic inequality in oral health Oral health-related quality of life Smoking as a risk factor for periodontal diseases Effectiveness and safety of water fluoridation in children Complex systems science in dental research.

Awards and Honours: In 2022, Prof. Loc was the recipient of the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) Distinguished Scientist H Trendley Dean Award 2022. In 2023, his paper in the Journal of Dental Research was awarded the IADR Abrey Sheiham Award for Distinguished Research in Dental Public Health.

Ms Aiko Nagae

Post Graduate Master of Public Health student, Griffith University

Aiko Nagae is a postgraduate student in Global Public Health at Griffith University, focusing on planetary and women’s health. She serves as a Planetary Health Campus Ambassador and represents the Griffith Planetary Health Club. Aiko is also involved with Tzu Chi Brisbane, conducting research on the social impact of medical outreach programs in remote Australian areas. Her research interests include female genital mutilation in Southeast Asia and promoting health equity for all.

Professor Cordia Chu

Research, education, and professional background: With a PhD in medical sociology and medical anthropology, Chu has a keen interest in translational research. Her key areas of expertise are: environment and health, health-promoting settings, international health and development, reproductive health, health promotion and integrated health planning, workplace health and safety management, community participation and stakeholder engagement, community needs assessment, and policy development. Her current focus has extended to climate change adaptation and health, collaborative partnerships, leadership, risk communication, and decision-making.

She has won 32 research and project grants, 48 international and 26 Australian consulting and advisory projects, and served on numerous professional committees.

Research Award and Supervision

2018 Special Commendation, Australian Council of Graduate Research Award for Excellence in Graduate Research Supervision
2017 Winner of Higher Degree Research Supervision Award, Griffith Vice Chancellor’s Awards for Excellence in Research
Winner of the Griffith University 2010 Excellence in Higher Research Supervision Award.

Chu has supervised to completion of 6 post-doctoral fellows, 45 PHDs, 3 MPhils, 6 honours, and over 45 masters. Her team is currently supervising 15 PhDs. She has published five books, over 230 Journal articles and chapters, 2 policy/guidelines, 4 commissioned research communication booklets, 5 documentary films, and has delivered 80 keynote addresses and over 150 invited presentations at international conferences.

Fields of Expertise

Environment and population health, health promotion, reproductive health, workplace health, global health
Translational research, research design and planning, health planning and policy development, risk communication and decision-making, community needs assessment, climate change adaptation

Roundtable Discussion 1: Geriatric and Palliative Care – Patient Management and Treatment Planning Considerations

Explore holistic approaches to managing geriatric and palliative care patients, with a focus on patient-centred treatment planning. This roundtable addresses key medical, psychosocial, oral health, and ethical considerations, offering practical insights for supporting older adults and those with life-limiting conditions.

Healthcare professionals, including medical specialists, dentists, nurses, allied health practitioners, and caregivers involved in the care of older adults and palliative patients, will gain valuable insights from this program.

Presenters & Moderator:

Dr. Jones Chen, Palliative Care Specialist;
Dr Shun-Chin Chang, Dept Head of Geriatric Medicine, Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital 大林慈院老人醫學科主任張舜欽醫師, 老人醫學/安寧緩和醫學;
Ms Shu-Ting Chuang, Long-Term Care, Vice Superintendent, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital (nursing background) 台中慈院莊淑婷副院長

Moderator: A/Prof. Mathew Lim, Specialist in Special Needs Dentistry

Dr Jones Chen

Palliative Care Specialist, Mater Hospital Brisbane

Dr Jones Chen is a palliative medicine specialist at Mater Hospital Brisbane. After graduating from the University of New South Wales in 2003, he began his career in general practice, where he developed a strong interest in supporting residents of aged care facilities. This passion led him to specialise further in palliative care. Over the years, Dr Chen has served as a palliative care consultant with the Metro South Palliative Care Residential Aged Care Facility In-Reach Service. He is deeply committed to improving palliative care for individuals in aged care.

Dr Shun-Chin Chang 張舜欽醫師

Dept Head of Geriatric Medicine,
Director of Integrated and Geriatric Palliative Care Centre
Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital

大林慈濟醫院老人醫學科主任

老人醫學與安寧緩和醫學專科

Dr Shun-Chin Chang is a highly esteemed physician specialising in geriatric medicine, palliative care, and medical education. With over a decade of experience in both clinical practice and leadership roles, Dr. Chang is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for elderly patients and advancing ethical standards in medical care.

Dr Chang earned his Doctor of Medicine (M.D.) from Tzu Chi University and further pursued a Master’s degree in Medical Education and Biomedical Ethics at National Taiwan University. His comprehensive academic background underscores his commitment to integrating clinical excellence with ethical practice and education.

Currently, Dr Chang leads the Division of Geriatric Medicine and serves as the Director of the Integrated and Geriatric Palliative Care Centre at Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital. His career includes notable roles such as Chief Resident in the Division of Geriatrics at National Cheng Kung University Hospital and Director of the Xin-Lian Hospice Ward at Dalin Tzu Chi Hospital.

Dr Chang’s expertise encompasses palliative care, geriatric medicine, medical ethics, and medical education. He is a licenced physician in Taiwan and holds multiple board certifications, including Family Medicine, Palliative Care, and Geriatric Medicine. Additionally, he serves as the Deputy Secretary-General of the Taiwan Association of Family Medicine, reflecting his active participation in shaping healthcare policies and practices in Taiwan.

Through his leadership, clinical acumen, and dedication to education, Dr. Chang continues to make a profound impact on geriatric and palliative care, improving patient outcomes and fostering a more compassionate healthcare environment.

Ms Shu-Ting Chuang 台中慈院莊淑婷副院長

Long-Term Care, Vice Superintendent, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital

Ms. Shuting Chuang serves as the Deputy Superintendent of Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital and Deputy Convener of the Long-Term Care Promotion Center under the Tzu Chi Foundation. She also holds key positions, including Chairperson of the Greater Taichung Nurses Association. As a senior evaluator for the Ministry of Health and Welfare and a reviewer for the National Quality Label (SNQ), Ms. Chuang has played a vital role in shaping medical and long-term care policies. Her contributions have been recognised with the “Outstanding Professional Contribution Award” from the Taiwan Nurses Association. Ms. Chuang initiated the “Successful Home Return” program at the Taichung Tzu Chi Nursing Home, significantly improving return rates for residents. She later integrated long-term care networks across Taiwan, establishing a comprehensive system covering home, community, and institutional care. Ms. Chuang also promotes international academic exchanges, working to share Taiwan’s innovative long-term care models globally.

A/Prof Mathew Lim

BDS BScDent (Hons) DCD (SND) PhD FRACDS FSCD MSCD RCSEd FiADH FICD FPFA

Adjunct Clinical Associate Professor Mathew Lim is a young clinical leader and clinician-scientist. He is one of only 30 registered specialists in special needs dentistry, specialising in the management of patients with complex health needs and disabilities. He currently practices in Melbourne in the private and hospital sectors with appointments at Royal Melbourne Hospital, St Vincent’s Hospital Melbourne, and The Alfred, where he is also the Director of Dental Services.

Mathew also has academic appointments at the Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences at Monash University and the Melbourne Dental School. These roles include Senior Lecturer in Special Needs Dentistry, Clinical Lead of the final year of the Doctor of Dental Surgery program, and Convenor of the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Special Needs Dentistry) degree. He had a diverse research background that ranges from clinical research into the evidence-based management of patients with bleeding conditions to public health research focused on understanding the challenges experienced by people with disabilities in relation to their oral health and improving oral health workforce capability to address the growing population of patients with complex medical needs and disabilities.

Mathew is past president of the Australian and New Zealand Academy of Special Needs Dentistry and contributes regularly to local and international advisory committees and working parties, including the National Disability Roadmap Implementation Governance Group.

Roundtable Discussion 2: Head & Neck Cancer – Pre-treatment Management & Rehabilitation

This roundtable discussion gathers experts from diverse fields, including oral and maxillofacial surgery, plastic surgery, radiation oncology, and rehabilitation, to explore the multifaceted care required for patients with head and neck cancer. Emphasising a multidisciplinary approach, the session delves into pre-treatment management strategies and innovative rehabilitation techniques to enhance functional and aesthetic outcomes. It addresses the importance of individualised care plans for comprehensive patient support. As well as promote collaborative strategies and multidisciplinary approaches to improve patient outcomes in both function and aesthetics.

Key Topics:

Pre-Treatment Management:

Role of Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeons and dental teams
Role of Radiation Oncologists
Role of Plastic Surgeons
Role of Allied Health Professionals (e.g., Nutritionist/Dietitian, Psychologist)
Multidisciplinary planning for surgical and non-surgical treatments, including chemotherapy and radiotherapy

2. Rehabilitation Strategies:

Post-surgical recovery focusing on speech, swallowing, and dental prosthetics
Managing lymphedema, scarring, and other complications
The importance of psychosocial support and patient education during the rehabilitation phase
Long-term follow-up care to monitor recurrence and address quality-of-life concerns

3. Case studies

Demonstrating collaborative success in managing complex cases

This engaging discussion aims to drive innovation and collaboration in the management of head and neck cancer, ensuring patients receive holistic, multidisciplinary care that prioritises their physical, functional, and emotional well-being.

Presenters & Moderator:

A/Prof Martin Batstone, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon, Director of the Maxillofacial Unit, Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital (RBWH)
Dr Charles Lin, Radiation Oncologist RBWH TBC;
Dr Sou-Hsin Chien 簡守信院長, Superintendent, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital Plastic Surgeon

Moderator: Dr John Martin, Specialist in Prosthodontics

A/Prof Martin Batstone, Oral & Maxillofacial Surgeon

Director of the Maxillofacial Unit, RBWH

MBBS BDSc (Hons) MPhil(Surg) FRACDS (OMS) FRCS (OMFS)

Martin Batstone was a graduate of the Queensland Maxillofacial Surgery Training Program

in 2004. His current position is senior staff specialist at the Royal Brisbane and Womens Hospital, director of the maxillofacial unit and the clinical lead of the Herston Biofabrication Institute facial research program. He is a past president of the Australian and New Zealand Head and Neck Cancer Society and an executive committee member of the International Academy of Oral Oncology. He has a keen interest in research with multiple past and present postgraduate students. His clinical interests are the surgical management of head and neck cancer and microvascular reconstruction.

A/Prof Charles Lin,

Radiation Oncologist, Royal Brisbane & Women’s Hospital (RBWH)
A/Prof on Medicine, University of Queensland

A/Prof Charles Lin is a distinguished radiation oncologist affiliated with the Royal Brisbane and Women’s Hospital (RBWH). He obtained his Fellowship from the Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Radiologists (FRANZCR) in 2007 and has been a staff specialist at RBWH since 2009.

In addition to his role at RBWH, A/Prof Lin practices at Icon Cancer Centre Greenslopes and GenesisCare Chermside. He is an Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Queensland and actively engages in cancer research, serving as the principal investigator for several clinical trials. His clinical expertise encompasses a broad range of solid tumour malignancies, with special interests in:

Breast cancer
Genitourinary cancer
Head and neck cancer
Prostate cancer
Skin cancer

A/Prof Lin is a member of the breast, urology, skin, and head and neck cancer multidisciplinary teams at RBWH. Fluent in Mandarin, he is committed to assisting patients from Chinese backgrounds. His research contributions have been featured in reputable journals, including Oral Oncology, Head and Neck, and the Journal of Neurological Surgery.

Dr Sou-Hsin Chien, MD 簡守信院長

Superintendent, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital Plastic Surgeon

Specialise in: Cutaneous Tumour; Head & Neck Tumour; Chronic Wound; Congenital Malformation
Host of medical health promotion program on Da Ai TV – All About Health

Dr. Chien hosts a popular medical program “All About Health” on Da Ai TV, being the first medical professional honoree to have won a Golden Bell Award in Taiwan. Through the help of stories and anecdotes, Dr. Chien Sou-Hsin, superintendent of the Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, translates scientific information into easy-to-understand facts and examples that audiences may apply in their everyday lives.

Dr John Martin

Maxillofacial Prosthodontics Fellow, Head & Neck Cancer Clinic, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse (Comprehensive Cancer Centre), Sydney

John Martin is a specialist Prosthodontist who completed a fellowship in maxillofacial prosthodontics and dental oncology at Chris O’Brien Lifehouse in Sydney. John loves all aspects of prosthodontics with a focus on providing complex dental and facial rehabilitation to patients following oncological resection, trauma, and severe dental disease.

John has dedicated much of his life to improving oral health in the community. He has regularly volunteered and coordinated volunteer projects both in Australia and overseas, including volunteering with TIMA in Queensland for the last 20 years. He is an active member of the ADA with service on both the Queensland and Federal ADA Councils.

John has a strong academic background as a former examiner for the RACDS primary exam, and an honorary associate lecturer at the University of Queensland. His focus is to bring a combined academic and technical excellence in patient outcomes to both the individual and the broader community through effective advocacy.

12:30pm – 2:00pm

Garden Lunch

2:00pm – 4:00pm

Four Parallel Sessions

Panel Discussion: Improving Access – an Interdisciplinary Approach to Caring

This dynamic panel discussion will spotlight innovative and collaborative strategies to improve access to healthcare for some of the most vulnerable populations. Featuring experts from an integrated home health program in Singapore, oral health services in Taiwan for patients in an unresponsive wakefulness state, and Chris O’Brien Lifehouse, the comprehensive cancer centre in Sydney, the session will emphasise the importance of interdisciplinary care in breaking barriers and delivering compassionate, patient-centred services.

Key Topics:

Bridging the Gap in Home-Based Care
Oral Health Services for Patients in Unresponsive Wakefulness State
The Comprehensive Cancer Center Perspective
Collaborative Models for Holistic Care

This engaging discussion brings together diverse perspectives to champion equitable and inclusive healthcare, emphasising that improving access requires teamwork, innovation, and unwavering commitment to patient care.

Presenters & Moderator:

Singapore Tzu Chi Food Farmacy – Dr Ho Xin Qin 何欣芩醫師, MD;
Dr. Yi-Pang Lee 花蓮慈院牙科部特殊需求口腔醫學科主任李彞邦醫師；Director of Special Needs Dentistry , Dentistry Department, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Taiwan.;
Dr John Martin, Maxillofacial Prosthodontics Fellow, Head & Neck Cancer Clinic, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse (Comprehensive Cancer Centre), Sydney
Ms Tan Gek Sim (Nancy) 陳玉心護理師 Palliative care nurse

Moderator: A/Pro Archana Pradhan, Special Needs Dentistry and Gerodontology, University of Sydney

Dr Ho Xin Qin 何欣芩醫師, MD

Lifestyle Medicine Physician

Dr Ho Xin Qin, a commissioned Tzu Chi volunteer, is a resident doctor for Tzu Chi (Singapore) Home Care services. Trained in Family Medicine and Palliative Medicine, she holds a passionate interest in Food as Medicine, and is an accredited Lifestyle Medicine Physician.

A/Prof. Dr Yi-Pang Lee, DDS, PhD 李彝邦醫師

Director of Special Needs Dentistry, Department of Dentistry, Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Taiwan; Specialist of Special Needs Dentistry; Director of Institute of Oral Medicine and Materials , Tzu Chi University, Taiwan; Associate Professor of Institute of Oral Medicine & Materials

花蓮慈院牙科部

特殊需求口腔醫學科主任

Dr. Yi Pang Lee who was educated at Chung Shan Medical University in Taiwan is the director of Special Needs Dentistry at Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital. He also serves as an associate professor at the Institute of Oral Medicine and Material, Tzu Chi University. Dr. Lee holds a PhD in Oral Medicine, a Master’s degree in Dental Material Science, and a DDS, all from Chung Shan Medical University.

Dr. Lee specialises in oral pathology, prosthodontics, aesthetic dentistry, dental implantology, family
dentistry, and geriatric and special needs dentistry. His professional experience includes roles as a lecturer and attending doctor at Chung Shan Medical University, as well as residency and chief residency at its affiliated hospital. He has contributed to research involving dental materials, cancer research, and case studies in oral pathology, including rare cases like fibrous dysplasia of the mandible, demonstrating his expertise in complex dental conditions.

He joined TIMA in 1999 and followed Tzu Chi volunteers and TIMA members to hold free clinics for people living in Taiwan’s rural areas and outlying islands. In 2008, he started to give oral professional care for persistent vegetative patients with TIMA members at Genesis Social Welfare Foundation in Taiwan. He also took part in free clinics hosted in many places, such as mainland China (in the Sichuan Province, Suzhou City, and Beijing’s municipality), the Philippines, Sri Lanka, Cambodia, Mozambique, and Jordan. In the process of serving, he realised that the greatest achievements come from within. Although far from the comfort of a typical clinical setting, he recognised his responsibility and mission where it was most needed.

Dr John Martin

Maxillofacial Prosthodontics Fellow, Head & Neck Cancer Clinic, Chris O’Brien Lifehouse (Comprehensive Cancer Centre), Sydney

Ms Tan Gek Sim (Nancy)

With a Specialist Diploma in palliative Care, Nurse Clinician Nancy Tan is nurse-anchor for the Home Palliative and Home Health services of Tzu Chi Singapore. A Tzu Chi Commissioner, devoted grandmother and devout Catholic, Nancy is a friend and pillar of support to Palliative patients and their families, both past and present.

A/Prof Archana Pradhan

BDS, BScDent (Hons), PhD, DClinDent (Special Needs Dentistry) (The University of Adelaide)
Fellow of Special Care Dentistry (USA), FPFA, FICD

Archana is an Associate Professor of Special Needs Dentistry and Gerodontology at The University of Sydney. She provides care to people with special needs in private, public, and mobile dental services. Her research projects include older adults, Special Olympics athletes, people with disabilities, and their carers, and she has reported her findings at several national and international conferences and journals. As the Lead for People with Disabilities, Australia’s National Oral Health Plan (2015-2024), and the National Clinical Director, Special Smiles, Special Olympics Australia, she has been a strong advocate for people with special needs and their carers. She has volunteered for the Royal Flying Doctor Service in remote Australian communities and in various parts of Nepal.

Roundtable Discussion 1: Dysphagia Management – Interdisciplinary Discussion & Case Studies

This roundtable discussion brings together leading experts in dysphagia management, including a specialist in special needs dentistry and a representative from the Interprofessional Swallowing Centre in Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital, Taiwan. The session will focus on the complexities of diagnosing and treating swallowing disorders through a collaborative, interdisciplinary approach, enriched by real-world case studies and innovative care models.

Key Topics:

Understanding Dysphagia
The Role of Special Needs Dentistry in Dysphagia Care
Insights from the Interprofessional Swallowing Centre in Taiwan
Interdisciplinary Case Studies

This engaging discussion will foster collaboration across disciplines, emphasising the need for teamwork and innovation in tackling the multifaceted challenges of dysphagia care. Participants will gain practical knowledge and inspiration to implement patient-centred, interdisciplinary solutions in their own practices.

Presenters & Moderator:

A/Prof. Mathew Lim, Specialist in Special Needs Dentistry;
Dr Ying-Ting Yeh 葉映廷醫師, Director of Dysphagia Dept Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital Interprofessional Swallowing Centre 花蓮慈院吞嚥障礙科主任 (咀嚼吞嚥健康中心)

Moderator: Dr Shiny Huang, Geriatrics registrar, Hornsby Hospital

A/Prof Mathew Lim

BDS BScDent (Hons) DCD (SND) PhD FRACDS FSCD MSCD RCSEd FiADH FICD FPFA

Mathew also has academic appointments at the Central Clinical School, Faculty of Medicine, Nursing, and Health Sciences at Monash University, and at the Melbourne Dental School. These roles include Senior Lecturer in Special Needs Dentistry, Clinical Lead of the final year of the Doctor of Dental Surgery program, and Convenor of the Doctor of Clinical Dentistry (Special Needs Dentistry) degree. He had a diverse research background that ranges from clinical research into the evidence-based management of patients with bleeding conditions to public health research focused on understanding the challenges experienced by people with disabilities in relation to their oral health and improving oral health workforce capability to address the growing population of patients with complex medical needs and disabilities.

Dr Ying-Ting Yeh 葉映廷主任

Director of Dysphagia Dept Hualien Tzu Chi Hospital

Dr. Ying-Ting Yeh is the Director of the Department of Dysphagia at the Swallowing Interprofessional Center and an attending physician in Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Hualien Tzu-Chi Hospital, Taiwan. A graduate of Tzu Chi University’s School of Medicine, Dr. Yeh earned her M.D. in 2015 and became a licenced PM&R specialist in 2021.

Dr. Yeh has held notable roles, including Chief Resident at Hualien Tzu-Chi Hospital, and served as an international scholar at both the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology in Japan and Virginia Commonwealth University in the USA. Her research focuses on neurorehabilitation, dysphagia, and geriatrics, with several peer-reviewed publications and international conference presentations to her credit.

Honoured with the “Best Intern of the Year” award and recipient of the Lien I-Nan Foundation scholarship, Dr. Yeh is an active member of the Taiwan Society of Neurorehabilitation and the Taiwan Association of Dysphasia.

Dr Shiny Huang

Geriatrics registrar, Hornsby Hospital

Dr Shiny Huang is a Geriatrics Advanced Trainee at Hornsby Ku-ring-gai Hospital in Sydney. She graduated from the University of New South Wales with a BMed MD BSc (Med) Hons in 2017. She has been a member of the Tzu Chi International Medical Association (TIMA) since 2013, participating in annual free dental clinics and a medical mission trip to Myanmar. Shiny is passionate about providing compassionate holistic care to her patients, advocating for the elderly population, and volunteering with Tzu Chi in her spare time.

4:00pm – 4:30pm

Afternoon Tea

4:30pm – 5:30pm

Open Plenary

All About Health – The Journey of Health Promotion

Join Dr Sou-Hsin Chien as he shares his remarkable journey from practising as a plastic surgeon to becoming the host of the award-winning program All About Health, which earned the prestigious Golden Bell Award in Taiwan. Driven by a simple yet profound mission, Dr. Chien sought to use media as a platform to make medical and health education accessible and impactful.

Through engaging storytelling and clear communication, he has transformed complex medical concepts into relatable and effective messages, breaking down barriers between healthcare and the public. Medical care becomes approachable, moving beyond the confines of a sterile white tower to connect with people in meaningful ways.

In this session, Dr. Chien will illustrate how the intersection of arts, literature, history, and medicine can inspire and promote health education, offering a unique perspective on making healthcare both humanistic and accessible.

Presenters:

Dr. Sou-Hsin Chien 簡守信院長, Superintendent, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, Taiwan
MC: Dr Zhi Han Yeo, Haematology Specialist, TIMA Melbourne Coordinator

Dr Sou-Hsin Chien, MD 簡守信院長

Superintendent, Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital
Plastic Surgeon

Specialise in: Cutaneous Tumour; Head & Neck Tumour; Chronic Wound; Congenital Malformation
Host of medical health promotion program on Da Ai TV – All About Health

Dr. Sou-Hsin Chien is a renowned plastic surgeon and superintendent of Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital. He embodies humanity in his practice
of medicine and has devoted himself to local community care and international disaster relief. Due to his visits to affected areas including the Philippines, Pakistan, Vietnam, Myanmar, Nepal, Jordan, and Mexico, he was honoured with the Presidential Achievement Award in Medicine in 2010. Dr. Chien hosts a popular medical program “All About Health” on Da Ai TV, being the first medical professional honoree to have won a Golden Bell Award in Taiwan. Through the help of stories and anecdotes, Dr. Chien Sou-Hsin, superintendent of the Taichung Tzu Chi Hospital, translates scientific information into easy-to-understand facts and examples that audiences may apply in their everyday lives.

Dr Zhi Han Yeo

Haematology Specialist, TIMA Melbourne Coordinator

Dr Zhi Han Yeoh is a dual-trained Clinical and Laboratory Haematologist. Zhi Han obtained her medical degree from the University of Melbourne. She is a Fellow of the Royal Australasian College of Physicians (Haematology) and a Fellow of the Royal College of Pathologists of Australasia. She then completed an Acute Leukaemia & Myelodysplasia Fellowship at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre & Royal Melbourne Hospital with active involvement in clinical trials. Zhi Han is now pursuing a PhD at Peter MacCallum Cancer Centre and Walter and Eliza Hall Institute of Research with a focus on high-risk clonal haematopoiesis in myeloid malignancies. She is highly dedicated to providing the best possible care to all her patients.

Outside her professional commitments, Zhi Han is a Tzu Chi Commissioner and has been actively involved in volunteer work with the Tzu Chi Foundation since 2008. She is currently the team leader of TIMA Melbourne, striving to bridge the gap in healthcare access and offering medical services to those most in need.

5:30pm – 6:00pm

Pre-Dinner Drinks

6:00pm – 7:30pm

Dinner

Day 2 – Hands-On Workshops

Mindset Workshop: Elevating Impact – Harnessing Each Team Member’s Leadership Potential

In today’s fast-paced and dynamic healthcare environment, every team member’s leadership potential plays a crucial role in achieving maximum impact.

Led by Dr Trudy Lin, a seasoned leadership coach and workshop facilitator for the SA Health Leading Clinicians Program and the DHAA Future Leaders Program, this interactive workshop will delve into purpose-driven leadership, including:

Growth mindset
Empowering individuals to drive change
Managing imposter syndrome
Values-based decision making

Participants will be empowered to:

Gain clarity on their personal values, purpose, and intrinsic motivators to guide daily decision-making
Harness the power of mindset techniques to develop their leadership potential
Implement strategies for managing imposter syndrome
Apply the skills gained in this workshop to create meaningful impact in both professional and personal spheres

Presenters:

Dr. Trudy Lin, Specialist in Special Needs Dentistry, Mindset Coach

MC: Ms. Helen Liang, Play Therapist, Counsellor & Social Worker

Dr Trudy Lin

Young Australian of the Year SA 2022
Specialist in Special Needs Dentistry
BDs (Adel), DClinDent(SND), MRACDS (SND), FPFA, FICD, AdDip (Nutrition)

Dr Trudy Lin, awarded Young Australian of the Year for South Australia in 2022, is a specialist in Special Needs Dentistry, providing care to people with disability, complex medical conditions (such as cancer), and with complex psychosocial circumstances (including homelessness and domestic violence victims). Dr Lin established Extra Mile Dental—South Australia’s first Specialist Special Needs Dental Clinic and Home Visiting Service. She has experience across both private and public sectors, including at the Special Needs Unit of the Adelaide Dental Hospital (2016-2022), and is involved in clinical education with the University of Adelaide as an honorary senior clinical lecturer (2021-2023), as an examiner in Special Needs Dentistry for La Trobe University, and the membership examinations for the Royal Australasian College of Dental Surgeons (RACDS) and on the RACDS Board of Studies for Special Needs Dentistry.

Dr Lin is involved in various national and international advocacy roles, including the Australasian representative for the International Advisory Committee for the International Association for Disability and Oral Health (IADH) and the National Advisory Committee for the National Centre of Excellence in Intellectual Disability Health. She has served on the Executive Committee of the Australian New Zealand Academy of Specialist in Special Needs Dentistry (ANZASND) and the South Australian Older Person’s Working Group.

Outside of her clinical work, Dr Lin is involved in leadership training and coaching as a workshop facilitator for the SA Health Leading Clinicians Program, facilitator for the Dental Hygiene Association of Australia Future Leaders Program, and runs a private coaching practice, Extra Mile Coaching, specialising in mindset coaching for dental professionals.

For further information visit www.trudysmile.net

Ms Helen Liang

Founder of Bright Insight Counselling
Australian Play Therapist and Registered Social Worker
Certified Emotional Intelligence Parenting Coach (The University of Melbourne)
Certified Instructor of the MinUP Children’s Program (USA)

Main Work: Providing psychological therapy for children aged 2-12, family education counseling, stress management, and personal growth coaching.

Specialties: Supporting children with special needs, individuals with anxiety and depression, and multicultural communities.

Stainless Steel Crowns – For Both Deciduous and Permanent Dentitions

Description:

This hands-on workshop is designed for dental professionals seeking to enhance their skills in the placement and management of stainless steel crowns (SSCs) for both deciduous and permanent dentitions. Participants will gain practical experience and knowledge on the indications, preparation, and techniques for effectively using stainless steel crowns as a restorative option.

Combining theory with practical application, the workshop provides participants with the opportunity to work directly with dental models and instruments. From selecting the appropriate crown size to modifying preformed SSCs for permanent dentition and ensuring patient comfort, attendees will gain valuable skills to enhance their clinical practice.

Learning Objectives:

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to:

Understand Indications and Contraindications: Identify the appropriate clinical situations for using stainless steel crowns in paediatric dentistry, as well as situations for which SSCs would be useful for permanent dentition, particularly for individuals with special needs.
Select Proper Crown Sizes: Demonstrate the ability to select the appropriate stainless steel crown size for various clinical scenarios.
Management of Paediatric Patients: Apply techniques to manage and communicate effectively with paediatric patients and their carers during the restorative process.
Recognise Complications and Solutions: Identify potential complications associated with stainless steel crowns and implement strategies for their management.
Gain Practical Experience: Acquire hands-on experience in placing and adjusting stainless steel crowns on dental models, enhancing confidence in performing the procedure in clinical practice.

This workshop will provide a comprehensive learning experience for dental professionals, improving their proficiency in restorative dentistry through the effective use of stainless steel crowns. More importantly, the emphasis will be on achieving the best treatment outcome through appropriate behaviour management to win the confidence of the patient.

Presenters:

Dr PY Lai, Specialist in Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics, Brisbane

Dr P.Y. Lai

MDSC (MELD, 1998); MDSC (QLD, 1994); BDSc (QLD, 1988); FRACDS

Dr P.Y. Lai is a highly regarded paediatric dental specialist and the only dual-trained Brisbane specialist in the specialties of Paediatric Dentistry and Orthodontics. Both specialties are of utmost importance for children, he is therefore able to diagnose, manage and treat children in the best possible way. Currently serving at Kids Dental Clinic, the longest-established paediatric and orthodontic dental practice in Brisbane with more than 26 years of a safe and excellent track record. Dr Lai and his team are fully committed to delivering quality family dentistry and maintaining the highest standard of care and comfort throughout every patient’s experience. In addition, Dr Lai is actively involved in teaching, lecturing, and taking up appointments as an external examiner for training specialists. He highly values community service and is actively engaged in providing voluntary dental care to support families experiencing vulnerability.

Beyond Root Canal Treatment: Endodontic Diagnosis and Vital Pulp Therapy part I & II

Contemporary endodontics is often defined by the use of technology, such as nickel-titanium files, the microscope, or cone beam computed tomography. Moreover, vital pulp therapy has emerged as a relevant option even in cases of painful pulpitis.

In order to provide optimal treatment and enhance long-term outcomes, fundamentals such as case assessment and diagnosis must be constantly upskilled as well.

This course will consist of an interactive and case-based portion that includes current best evidence guidelines and diagnostic terminology. The hands-on course will include demonstrations and exercises in vital pulp therapy using realistic 3D printed models and biomaterials.

At the conclusion of the course, participants will be able to:

Apply proper diagnostic terms leading to appropriate treatment
Discuss with patients the expected outcome based on a realistic case assessment
Employ evidence-based techniques for various forms of vital pulp therapy

Presenters & Moderator:

Prof Ove Peters, Specialist in Endodontics, Brisbane

Professor Ove Peters

Head of Clinical Dentistry & Professor of Endodontics
School of Dentistry
Affiliate of Centre for Orofacial Regeneration, Reconstruction and Rehabilitation (COR3)
Centre for Orofacial Regeneration, Reconstruction and Rehabilitation

Dr. Ove A. Peters joined the University of Queensland, Brisbane, Australia, in 2020 after faculty positions in Heidelberg, Germany, and Zurich, Switzerland, as well as at the University of California, San Francisco. Most recently, he was the founding director of the postgraduate endodontic program at the Arthur A. Dugoni School of Dentistry in San Francisco, a professor with tenure, and the Chair of the Department of Endodontics at that school.

Dr. Peters has wide-ranging clinical and research expertise and has published more than 200 manuscripts related to endodontic technology and biology. He has authored two books and contributed to several leading textbooks in dentistry; he also is an associate editor for the International Endodontic Journal as well as the Australian Endodontic Journal, an academic editor for PLOS One, and serves on the review panel of multiple other journals. Among other awards, Dr Peters has received the Hans Genet Award of the European Society of Endodontology and more recently the Louis I. Grossman Award of the American Association of Endodontists. He is a Diplomate of the ABE, a member of OKU, and a Fellow of the International and American Colleges of Dentistry.

Conservative Management of Tooth Wear – Tools for Prevention and Interceptive Treatment

Presenters:

Dr. Janak Patel, General Dentist

Demonstrator: Dr Sahil Soni, General Dentist

MC: Dr Shannon Sia

Description

This workshop focuses on the conservative management of tooth wear, with an overview on the current prevention methods and when do we decide to intervene, as well as early intervention options. The hands-on component will include smile design principles using simple computer software programs to work on the smile design digitally; as well, participants will learn how to do their own diagnostic wax-up to facilitate the treatment.

Learning Objectives

Understand the current prevention methods
Apply Prevention Strategies: Including dietary counselling, the use of protective restorations, and patient education.
Plan Interceptive Treatments: Develop conservative treatment plans tailored to individual patients to address early signs of tooth wear and prevent further deterioration. Early intervention options, as well as deciding when to intervene.
Perform Smile Design: Utilise principles of smile design to plan aesthetic and functional restorations for patients with worn dentition.
Execute Diagnostic Wax-Ups: Gain hands-on experience in creating diagnostic wax-ups.
Integrate Treatment and Communication Skills: Effectively communicate treatment options and expected outcomes with patients to encourage informed decision-making.

Hands-On Components

Smile Design practice: Learn to assess and plan for balanced, aesthetically pleasing restorations using digital methods.
Diagnostic Wax-Up Practice: Single tooth diagnostic wax-up.

This workshop will enrich participants with the knowledge and the management of tooth wear conservatively while achieving functional and aesthetic success in their restorative practices.

NB: Participants please bring their own laptop and digital photos of different smiles for the Smile Design practice component.

Dr Janak Patel

BChD (Leeds, UK)

Dr Janak Patel graduated in 2015 with a Bachelor of Dental Surgery from the University of Leeds, UK. His experience in the UK ranged from working in the NHS and private practice and also oral and maxillofacial surgery as a senior house officer. He attained membership to The Royal College of Surgeons, Edinburgh, prior to moving to Australia in 2018. Along with many awards, Dr Janak won the Derek Saks Prize in Restorative Dentistry at the University of Leeds.

Janak likes to focus on being a caring dentist who takes his time getting to know his patients and discovering their needs. He aims for patients to feel comfortable during their visits and leave with a smile that gives them confidence. He enjoys helping anxious patients stabilise their oral health in a conservative manner. Janak is passionate about dentistry and continually undertakes new courses to expand his skill set and update his knowledge. He also values giving back to the community and has been a volunteer with the Tzu Chi Foundation since 2020.

Dr Sahil Soni

Bachelor of Dental Surgery

Dr Sahil Soni is a Brisbane-based dentist. He graduated from the University of Otago, New Zealand, in 2009 and has been working in private dental practice since then.

He enjoys all aspects of dentistry, with a special interest in cosmetic dentistry. He also enjoys developing a plan with his patients for dental management and understands that every patient’s needs and wants are unique.

Dr Sahil is very passionate about his work and is up to date with new techniques and technology to keep up with the improvements in dentistry. He is extremely passionate about mentoring and teaching the next generation.

Outside of work, Dr Sahil enjoys photography, hiking, and playing squash.

Dr Shannon Sia

Dr Shannon Sia graduated in 2017 with a Bachelor of Dental Science (Honours) from the University of Queensland, and was a recipient of the UQ Excellence Scholarship during her studies.

After graduating, Shannon has been working as a general dentist in private practice between Gold Coast and Brisbane.

The aspect Shannon enjoys most about dentistry is being able to give back to the community, and providing quality, conservative treatment for her patients with as much comfort and as little anxiety as possible.