HKUMed launches the 'HKUMed Sports Health' initiative to unite the realms of sports development, medical education, research, and clinical services in a bid to champion a healthier, more active society in Hong Kong. The opening ceremony includes key supporters, featuring Professor Chak-sing Lau (middle, front row), Vice-President & Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health) and Dean of Medicine, HKU.
The LKS Faculty of Medicine at the University of Hong Kong (HKUMed) kicked off the 'HKUMed Sports Health' initiative, aiming to promote a transformative sports health landscape in the city. As a primary healthcare advocate, HKUMed is set to unite the realms of sports development, medical education, research, and clinical services in a bid to champion a healthier, more active society.
The initiative was officially launched today (14 May) at a special ceremony. 'In recent years, the HKSAR Government has actively promoted sports development, which includes encouraging collaboration among communities to foster a strong sporting culture,' said Professor Chak-sing Lau, Vice-President & Pro-Vice-Chancellor (Health) and Dean of Medicine, HKU, at the ceremony. 'Regular exercise is crucial for preventing chronic diseases and maintaining overall health. In light of this, the HKUMed Sports Health initiative was established as an important part of our Comprehensive Primary Healthcare Collaboratory (CPHC), dedicated to pioneering a transformative sports health ecosystem. We are here to empower the community with our expertise in sports science and clinical care, fostering physical vitality across all ages and abilities.'
'We have always focused on primary healthcare and knowledge exchange. This initiative will emphasise preventive care and rehabilitation to enhance overall community health, working together to contribute to a healthier future,' Professor Lau added.
Professor Wong Tak-man, Clinical Professor at the Department of Orthopaedics and Traumatology, School of Clinical Medicine at HKUMed, outlined the mission of the initiative, 'The aim of the HKUMed Sports Health initiative is to spearhead evidence-based innovations by uniting sports science, rehabilitation science, and clinical research to have a real-world impact. Our commitment to public education and knowledge exchange activities will help cultivate a culture of physical activities in the community.'
Education is a cornerstone of the initiative. Sports health education will be integrated into the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery (MBBS) curriculum, equipping medical students with a broad understanding of the importance of exercise adaptation and physical activity, and its vital role in prevention, treatment and rehabilitation of major chronic diseases. In their clinical training, the students will gain hands-on experience in a range of orthopaedics and traumatology clinics. During their Family Medicine block, they will also attend workshops on exercise prescription and musculoskeletal ultrasound to foster a preventive and rehabilitative approach to patient care. A specialty clerkship at The University of Hong Kong - Shenzhen Hospital will further enrich students' practical experience and foster cross-border collaboration.
Dr Amy Ng Pui-pui, Clinical Assistant Professor at the Department of Family Medicine and Primary Care, School of Clinical Medicine at HKUMed, added, 'With the launch of the HKUMed Sports Health, we are excited to extend our impact beyond campus. Through community activities at District Health Centres, we plan for the students to have the opportunity to address societal needs directly and promote healthy lifestyles through exercise.' In addition to a minor in Kinesiology, which HKUMed offers to all HKU undergraduates, the Faculty will offer a new module on Sports Health to educate students in different healthcare disciplines on promoting health through exercise.
HKUMed will establish strategic partnerships with reputable educational institutions to enhance sports medicine education and facilitate scholarly exchange. These collaborations will include boosting research activities, clinical internships and teaching. The Faculty will also organise symposiums and seminars on innovations and interdisciplinary advancements in sports health. The project team is cooperating with District Health Centres to spread sports-related health information to the public.
With expertise spanning cardiology, emergency medicine, family medicine and primary care, orthopaedics and traumatology, kinesiology, and sports science, the HKUMed Sports Health team is exploring to provide on-site medical support during major sports competitions and other events. HKUMed has established a purpose-built clinic specialising in sports-related injuries, cardiac fitness and rehabilitation for athletes and community sports enthusiasts at all levels.
By integrating clinical expertise with community empowerment, HKUMed is poised to lead the charge in fostering physical vitality and promoting a healthier society. Through strategic partnerships, innovative research, and comprehensive education programmes, HKUMed is redefining the future of sports health and setting new benchmarks in medical care and rehabilitation.
