Promoting Primary Healthcare Development: The Role of Nurse Clinics in Hong Kong
Hong Kong is facing dual challenges of an aging population and rising rates of chronic diseases. The healthcare system is gradually shifting from a "treatment-focused" approach to a "prevention-first" strategy. Primary healthcare is at the heart of this transition, aiming to provide comprehensive, continuous, and people-centered services through a public-private partnership model. At Shoebill Health Care, our nursing team, holding Post-registration Certificate Course (PRCC) in Primary Health Care plays an active role in promoting the development of primary healthcare in Hong Kong, helping citizens prevent diseases and manage their health. Our nurse clinic work closely with our doctor to ensure our clients receive continuous and comprehensive care.
1. Providing Comprehensive and Convenient Health Services
The main goal of primary healthcare is to provide convenient and comprehensive health services in the community. Our nurse clinics offer the following services:
- Chronic Disease Screening: We provide various health assessments, including screenings for diabetes, hypertension, and high cholesterol. Our nursing team proactively conducts health risk evaluations and refers eligible citizens to programmes like the Chronic Disease Co-Care Scheme and Colorectal Cancer Screening Programme. We explain the details, co-payment arrangements, and benefits of these programs to help citizens understand how to access appropriate health services. So far, we have successfully assisted many patients in early detection and management of potential chronic diseases, receiving positive feedback.
- Chronic Disease Management: We offer long-term care for patients with conditions like diabetes and hypertension, including regular monitoring, medication management, and lifestyle advice to help them control their conditions. For instance, we provide "diabetic foot" assessments and preventive services, alongside personalised health improvement plans.
- Health Education: We educate the public on health topics such as smoking cessation, alcohol reduction, balanced diets, and weight management, increasing their health awareness.
2. Promoting the "Prevention Over Treatment"
Preventing diseases is a key focus of primary healthcare, and our nurse clinics play an essential role:
- Vaccinations: We offer flu and pneumococcal vaccinations through the Vaccination Subsidy Scheme. Our Registered Nurses have years of experience in vaccination, providing professional and safe services. We assess citizens' risk factors based on age, gender, and family history to offer targeted prevention advice. We also provide various other vaccinations, such as HPV and shingles, to help citizens prevent infectious diseases. For more vaccine information, please visit our vaccine page.
- Travel Health Services: We provide travel health consultations, vaccinations, and risk assessments for citizens planning to travel, ensuring their health and safety during trips.
- Community Outreach: We collaborate with community partners (like non-profits and community pharmacies) to offer diverse outreach services, including home care, women's health, group vaccination services, and health seminars, raising health awareness in the community.
3. Advancing Digital Healthcare Services
With technological advancements, digital healthcare services are becoming a crucial trend in primary care. Our nurse clinics are actively participating:
- eHealth System: We use the eHealth system to access clients' health records, such as medication prescriptions and past medical history. This helps us gain a comprehensive understanding of their health and provide more coordinated care.
- TeleHealth Services: We offer TeleHealth services, for those with mobility issues or living in remote areas, ensuring they receive timely health care.
Conclusion
With the establishment of District Health Centres across 18 districts and the launch of the Primary Healthcare Blueprint, the role of primary healthcare nurses is increasingly important. At Shoebill Health, our nursing team, holding Post-registration Certificate Course in Primary Health Care, is dedicated to providing comprehensive and attentive health services, covering chronic disease management, women's health, elderly care, and health education. We aim to drive the development of primary healthcare and help citizens maintain and improve their health.
If you have any health concerns, feel free to contact us. Let’s work together for your health!
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ETNet Interview: Shoebill Primary Healthcare Team Discuss Flu and Pneumococcal Prevention
