✨Translated by AI

Prof. Dr. Yuen Tannirandorn: A Journey of Over 40 Years in Obstetrics and Gynaecology – The ‘Grandfather Doctor’ Trusted by Celebrities and Public Figures

A Journey of Over 40 Years in Obstetrics and Gynaecology – The ‘Grandfather Doctor’ Trusted by Celebrities and Public Figures

– Prof. Dr. Yuen Tannirandorn –

The term ‘Grandfather Doctor,’ used by patients to refer to Prof. Dr. Yuen Tannirandorn, a senior obstetrician and gynaecologist with over 40 years of experience, speaks not only to his vast expertise but also to the numerous babies he has delivered. Many of these babies have now grown up and returned to him as mothers, trusting him with the care of the next generation.

From Sampeng to London

“My father didn’t want me to study medicine. He wanted me to help with the family business.”

Dr. Yuen’s family, who immigrated to Thailand from China, was well-known for its business prowess. Like many Chinese families, they hoped their children would continue in the family business. Yuen, along with his seven siblings, spent his childhood working in their family’s fabric store in Sampeng. During school holidays, rather than play, he learned the family trade. Despite becoming proficient in sales, Yuen realised he was not content with running the shop. He longed for a career that would offer greater independence and purpose.

One day, after a family member became ill, they visited the renowned paediatrician Assoc. Prof. Dr. Prasong Tujinda’s clinic. The sight of a long line of shoes outside the clinic and Dr. Tujinda’s compassionate care left a lasting impression on Yuen. The way patients trusted their doctor sparked his desire to pursue a medical career, despite his family’s plans for him to take over the business.

After graduating from Suankularb Wittayalai School, Yuen secretly studied for medical school exams with a friend, eventually gaining admission to the Faculty of Medicine at Chulalongkorn University. Fortunately, some of his siblings were eager to continue the family business, allowing his father to give him permission to pursue his dream. Yuen excelled, graduating at the top of his class with first-class honours, earning a gold medal in both his 4th and 6th years. He balanced his academic pursuits with enjoying life as a university student.

After becoming a qualified obstetrician, Dr. Yuen was awarded The Anandamahidol Foundation Scholarship, which allowed him to further his studies in maternal-fetal medicine at the University of London. His goal was to be able to diagnose unborn babies early, enabling timely treatment. Life abroad, in an era when diversity was not widely celebrated, was challenging. Dr. Yuen faced discrimination from Westerners but, through perseverance, he earned their respect. He went on to contribute to 19 international research papers in just two years alongside a team. The skills and knowledge he gained in London would later benefit Thailand’s medical community.

A Doctor Who Brings Change

“Diagnosing and treating babies in the womb is a profound science, and I felt it was time for Thailand to have such a dedicated unit, to be on par with international standards.”

Upon returning to Thailand, Dr. Yuen became a lecturer at Chulalongkorn University and began working at Chulalongkorn Hospital. At that time, there was no specialised unit dedicated to maternal and fetal medicine. Dr. Yuen was the one who pioneered this field at Chulalongkorn, and later expanded it across medical schools in Thailand.

Whilst working in London, Dr. Yuen’s team produced groundbreaking research on diagnosing fetal abnormalities and treating them in the womb. This research led to the development of Non-invasive Prenatal Testing (NIPT), which enables the safe, rapid, and accurate detection of chromosomal abnormalities in foetuses via maternal blood tests. This technology was first used at Chulalongkorn Hospital. Dr. Yuen also introduced high-frequency ultrasound to diagnose and treat fetal conditions. Thanks to his pioneering research and the statistical data collected over years, the medical community gradually embraced these innovations, changing the way maternal and fetal care is provided.

Educating and Empowering Future Generations

Dr. Yuen has shaped countless medical professionals since returning from the UK. Even after his retirement at the age of 60, he continues to mentor the next generation as an adjunct professor whilst providing comprehensive care for pregnant women and their unborn children at BNH Hospital.

His academic contributions were recognised when he became a Professor in his early forties, the youngest to hold the title at that time. In his early fifties, he was honoured with the Mahaprabhorn Chang Phueak award, Thailand’s highest civilian distinction, in recognition of his outstanding service to the state and society.

Dr. Yuen – A Doctor for the Celebrities

“We treat all patients the same. I don’t inquire into their backgrounds. If the nurse tells me they are a celebrity, I just treat them like any other patient.”

With over 10,000 mothers having trusted Dr. Yuen with their childbirths, many patients – once children themselves – return to Dr. Yuen when it is time for them to have their own children. Whilst Dr. Yuen does not view the care of celebrities as a mark of success, he finds great pride in knowing that his patients are happy, that their babies are healthy, and that they have safe deliveries.

“Sometimes when I’m out, patients approach me as though I’m a relative, asking if I remember them. They say, ‘You delivered me, and now my child is growing up.’ It’s incredibly rewarding to see them contribute to society.”

Time Management – Key to Success

One of Dr. Yuen’s key principles is punctuality. As an obstetrician, he cares for two lives at once – the mother and the child – and every moment counts, especially when the baby’s arrival doesn’t follow an ideal schedule. Working in the delivery room requires teamwork, with paediatricians, anaesthetists, and nurses. Dr. Yuen’s commitment to punctuality is evident not only in his medical practice but in all aspects of his life, whether as a husband, father, or member of various professional associations. This discipline allows him to manage his work and personal life efficiently.

“Time is irreplaceable; once it passes, it’s gone.”

A Life Devoted to Family and Fitness

Dr. Yuen believes that the key to remaining youthful at the age of 66 is exercise. He has maintained a regular exercise regimen since university, dedicating one to one and a half hours each day to weight training, cardio, and stretching. Alongside exercise, he ensures a balanced diet, adequate sleep, and a stress-free lifestyle. This holistic approach to health has contributed to his youthful appearance and overall well-being.

“If your health isn’t good, you can’t take care of your patients.”

A Legacy Built on Experience and Dedication

Dr. Yuen’s journey in the field of obstetrics and gynaecology has spanned a lifetime. He has achieved the highest academic and professional honours, but his true legacy lies in his spirit and commitment to caring for people, his family, and himself.

“Nowadays, I don’t aspire to be a role model for others. I’m content with what I have – enough to live comfortably. My health is the most important thing, as is my family. I strive to do my best in everything I do.”