Ms Koh Pei Wen, Pauline

Pauline Koh is recognised for her leadership in community rehabilitation and vocational reintegration for persons with physical disabilities. As Principal Physiotherapist at SPD, she was instrumental in developing the Transitional Programme for Employment (TPE)—a holistic, community-based initiative that helps individuals with acquired disabilities return to work, school, and community life.

She also established SPD’s Spinal Cord Injury Self-Management Programme, combining client education and peer mentorship to support long-term health and prevent complications. Her published research showed improved self-efficacy among participants. Recognising mobility as key to inclusion, Pauline co-developed the Public Bus Confidence Course with Tower Transit Singapore to help clients commute independently.

In 2024, she led the integration of SPD’s Community Rehabilitation and TPE services, and introduced a standardised rehabilitation pathway for Total Knee Replacement clients. She has strengthened sector capacity by leading clinical audits, internal training, and evidence-based practice initiatives across a team of nearly 110 allied health professionals.

A committed clinician-researcher, Pauline earned a Master’s in Clinical Rehabilitation while working part-time. She has published and presented research in leading journals and national conferences, and in 2023, was appointed a rater for the Physiotherapy Evidence Database (PEDro).

Pauline champions client engagement and inclusion through co-creation of initiatives such as group rehabilitation programmes, a public art exhibition, and a Peer Support Directory. Her partnerships with organisations like Resorts World Sentosa and Tic Tag have expanded opportunities for persons with disabilities.

Her advocacy extends to accessibility and public policy, including participation in research with the Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT) on improving outdoor fitness zones. She regularly shares her expertise at professional forums such as the 2024 Social Service Tribe Festival and the SingHealth Duke-NUS Spine Centre Scientific Meeting 2023.

For her contributions to strengthening rehabilitation services, Pauline is awarded the Excellence Award 2025.