At present, the limitations of the licensing exam for Chinese medicine practitioners (CMP) and the lack of a systematic training system result in inadequate clinical training and professional disparities among CMPs. With the opening of Hong Kong's first Chinese Medicine Hospital next year, what measures can be taken to enhance the training of CMPs, ensuring they meet modern healthcare needs and play a more significant role within Hong Kong's healthcare system?

Our Hong Kong Foundation (OHKF) is launching its latest policy advocacy report titled “Transforming Chinese Medicine through System Development and Integration”. This report highlights that, as Hong Kong faces an aging population and an increasing prevalence in chronic diseases, the Government is actively driving healthcare reform to focus more on prevention by strengthening primary healthcare. Chinese medicine (CM), with its principles of “preventive treatment of diseases (治未病)” and holistic care, aligns perfectly with this direction. Given the growing recognition of CM, as demonstrated by increased usage in recent years, Hong Kong should seize this opportunity to facilitate the CM system development and deepen its integration into the healthcare system. Stay tuned!