Brunei Hepato-Pancreato-Biliary Surgery Unit: conception of an idea to reality

Since its inception in 1984, the Department of Surgery in Raja Isteri Pengiran Anak Saleha (RIPAS) hospital has evolved through many trials and tribulations. General Surgery, a recognized primary specialty, has further divided into several functioning units to provide specialized care and treatment for the Brunei population. The annual increase in the local incidence of hepato-pancreato-biliary pathologies, which usually involves more complex management, has provided a new challenge to the department. This has led to the development of a dedicated unit to tackle this disease. The McKinsey 7-S model was used as a platform to assist in its conception and to help align local changes to assure success. All the seven elements, with the combination of intent, dedication and teamwork, will hopefully make this a less daunting task.