Editorial | Healthy start to new Hong Kong medical school bid
Third such facility for city will have to bring something different to medical care, both in terms of curriculum and students
Healthcare in Hong Kong has a much envied reputation for availability, affordability and quality. The system is not, however, immune to the shortage of medical practitioners increasingly weighing on communities worldwide as populations age.
So, it was a relief to see further progress being made towards a third medical school for the city. Last month, the plan was endorsed by Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu in his policy address.
Soon after, Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau said the new school could adopt a curriculum aimed at broadening the source of students. Its recruitment targets and curriculum are expected to align with those of a second-degree four-year programme in the United States.
Lo said a graduate-entry curriculum would provide Hong Kong with more routes to recruit students. The pathway would tend to draw mature students more likely to finish the programme.
Authorities have now set up a task force to investigate the matter. Co-chaired by Lo and Secretary for Education Christine Choi Yuk-lin, the body is tasked with setting the direction and parameters of the medical school. Progress must be monitored to ensure the facility adopts an innovative strategic position that complements training already offered at the University of Hong Kong and Chinese University.
