Chinese-Western Medicine Collaboration and Tele-consultation: A New Choice for Primary Healthcare in North District

In response to the ever-growing demand for healthcare services, the Hong Kong Young Women’s Christian Association (YWCA) has established the YWCA Lee Wing Kit Integrated Health Centre in Sheung Shui, with the grand opening ceremony held today. Operated by a multi-disciplinary team, the Centre combines the strengths of both Chinese and Western medicine with the core concept of "Lifestyle Medicine", which aims to provide one-stop, affordable, and high-quality medical services for North District residents, while offering essential medical support to families living in remote areas. 

Located on the 9th floor of SPOT, a major shopping mall in Sheung Shui, the Integrated Health Centre is situated alongside two other YWCA primary healthcare units—the North DHC Express and PHARM+ YWCA Community Pharmacy. Together, they form a one-stop primary healthcare services hub for for the local community. 

Following a three-month trial period, the Centre held its opening ceremony today. The event was officiated by Patron Mrs. Helen Lee; Chairman of Sha Tau Kok District Rural Committee, Mr. Li Koon-hung, MH; Senior Pastor Rev. Law Tin-lam of Sheung Shui Baptist Church; President of YWCA, Ms. Lee Shuk-ying; and Vice-Chairman of YWCA Primary and Community Health Committee, Dr. Luk Che-chung. 

President Lee Shuk-ying mentioned in officiating speech, "The Lee Wing Kit Integrated Health Centre is a direct response to the government’s Primary Healthcare Blueprint. By leveraging YWCA’s strengths in cross-unit and cross-professional collaborations, we provide timely primary healthcare and social support services as a whole. Our goal is to promote sustainable health management and holistic care within the community, supporting chronic disease patients and their families to prevent the deterioration of illnesses, and improve their overall quality of life." 

Multi-disciplinary Team: A Holistic Approach to Combating Chronic Disease

The Centre features two consultation rooms, Chinese medicine pharmacy and treatment room. It is operated by a multi-disciplinary team including Chinese medicine practitioners, registered medical practitioners, nurses, social workers, physiotherapists and dietitians. The team integrates Chinese and Western medical philosophies to treat chronic diseases, pain management, and gastrointestinal dysfunction. It offers precise Western medical diagnosis, laboratory tests and prescriptions, complemented by Chinese herbal medicine and acupuncture therapies, providing patients with safe and complementary integrated treatment options. Furthermore, the Centre’s Western doctors are registered under Chronic Disease Co-Care (CDCC) Pilot Scheme, providing screening and management services for chronic illnesses. 

Currently, the consultation fee for Chinese medicine is HK$150, while Western medicine consultation (including three days of basic medication) ranges from HK$450 to HK$600. 

Tele-consultation and Medication Delivery: Supporting Aging in Place for Remote Elders

Beyond medical treatment, the Centre actively promotes "Lifestyle Medicine" concept, focusing on healthy diet, adequate sleep, regular exercises, stress management, a tobacco-and-alcohol-free social manner, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle. The Centre also provides screening services such as fundus photography (retinal imaging) and bone density tests, as to enhance public awareness of disease prevention. 

To assist elderly residents living in remote areas or those with limited mobility, the Centre utilizes information technology to provide tele-consultation services in Sha Tau Kok area. This service offers rapid assessment and advice for episodic illnesses, followed by the delivery of Chinese herbal medicine. This initiative supports elderly patients in managing their conditions, reduces unnecessary emergency room visits, and enhances their sense of security while aging in place. For those experiencing emotional distress or sleep issues, the team also provides timely support and referrals to appropriate community resources and professional services.