All Star Payback Winner Spotlight: Dr. Taiwen Chen — Finding Purpose, Balance, and Renewal in Critical Care

A Life-Saving Calling

From her earliest memories, Dr. Taiwen Chen knew she was destined for medicine. Influenced by a family member who had polio and was paralyzed, she found her purpose early — helping others heal.

“I’ve always wanted to do medicine,” Dr. Chen shared. “A family member who had polio inspired me to do something that would help her and other people. Critical care drew me in during medical school. It’s fast-paced, you care for the sickest of the sick, and it’s incredibly rewarding when patients leave your ICU healthy.”

For Dr. Chen, every day in medicine offers powerful, humbling reminders of why she chose this path.

“There are many defining moments,” she said. “Every time someone comes off life support after everyone said they wouldn’t survive — and then they come back two years later to say thank you — that’s what makes it all worth it.”

The COVID-19 pandemic made those moments even more profound. It also reinforced an important truth: even those who dedicate their lives to healing others must find ways to heal and recharge themselves.

Rediscovering Balance Through Locum Tenens Work

After years of tireless service in both hospital and clinic settings, Dr. Chen felt the strain of burnout during the pandemic. Locum tenens work through All Star Healthcare Solutions gave her the reset she needed.

“I decided to take time off and do locums on my schedule instead of someone else’s,” she explained. “It let me travel to different parts of the country, see new hospitals, and reaffirm what I love about medicine — while giving me more autonomy over when I work.”

That sense of freedom and renewal reignited her love for medicine. Along the way, her All Star recruiter, Farah Eid, became an invaluable partner.

“Farah has been great. She keeps after me, looks out for opportunities, and makes sure everything’s going well.”

What Makes All Star Different

Having worked with several staffing organizations, Dr. Chen says All Star stands out for its personal touch and genuine care.

“I like smaller locums companies. With some large ones, you get moved from one recruiter to another, and no one knows your preferences. All Star feels more personal — they know what you like.”

That personal connection extended beyond her assignments. It’s how she first heard about the All Star Payback Contest — a quick conversation with Farah that turned into an unexpected surprise.

“Who knew? One entry was enough, and here we are!” she laughed.

Paying It Forward — and Taking a Break

After learning she was one of five national Payback winners, Dr. Chen knew exactly how she wanted to share the joy.

“We’d love to travel — maybe a cruise or another trip,” she said. “Medicine is hard, and life comes at you fast. You have to enjoy your family and your time away so you come back refreshed.”

She plans to share part of her prize with her family, especially her daughter who’s in college, as a way to celebrate together.

Purpose That Lasts a Lifetime

When asked what being a critical care physician means to her, Dr. Chen answered simply but powerfully:

“It means having the ability to help the sickest of the sick.”

And the most rewarding part?

“Seeing someone survive the ICU or breathe easier again. Helping families through tough times — that’s what keeps me going.”

To Dr. Chen, All Star Healthcare Solutions is more than a staffing company — it’s a partner that embodies the same compassion and connection she brings to her work.

“All Star is very hands-on, very friendly, and has more of a community feel than the corporate side.”

Celebrating All Star Payback Winners

The All Star Payback Contest was created to celebrate the dedication and impact of healthcare professionals across the country — people who go above and beyond to care for others.
Dr. Taiwen Chen embodies everything this campaign was meant to honor: courage, compassion, and commitment to healing.

Congratulations, Dr. Chen — and thank you for reminding us that purpose, balance, and heart are the true rewards of medicine.

Check out Dr. Chen’s original video submission below.