Hong Kong has introduced a new dual-track career pathway to support doctors who combine clinical practice with teaching and research.
The initiative, led by the Health Bureau (HB) in collaboration with the Hospital Authority (HA) and the city’s two medical schools—the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK)—aims to nurture talent and strengthen the healthcare sector.
Under this scheme, doctors will hold positions at both HA hospitals and universities, allowing them to flexibly divide their time between patient care, teaching, and research.
The pathway includes customized work arrangements, career progression opportunities, and academic titles such as university professorships.
Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau emphasized the significance of merging clinical work with research and education. He noted that clinical experience drives medical research, which in turn enhances patient care, illustrating how these elements are interdependent.
He also mentioned that this integration facilitates doctors in pursuing their passions and contributes to the advancement of medical innovation in Hong Kong.
The initiative is part of broader healthcare reforms, including plans for a Hong Kong Centre for Medical Products Regulation, a Greater Bay Area International Clinical Trial Institute, and the planning for the third medical school. The government hopes the new pathway will also attract overseas-trained doctors interested in research and innovation.
So far, five doctors have been selected for the program. Four from Hong Kong Children’s Hospital, appointed by HKU, will focus on pediatric cancers, stem cell transplants, and neonatal care, while a New Territories East Cluster intensive care specialist, appointed by CUHK, will specialize in pain management and critical care research. More doctors are expected to join later this year.
