The Phase II works of major maintenance and repair works on the external walls of the Academy building will be carried out in the first half year of 2020. Due to the works at main gate and parking entrance, the car park will be temporarily closed from 2 January 2020 to 17 February 2020. For safety reasons, the Fellows’ Garden on 3/F is now closed until further notice. The Academy will try best to make sure events held at the building would be affected as minimal as possible.

The Secretariat Office will be closed early at 1:00 pm on 24 January 2020.

Dining Room and Academy Lounge will be closed from 6:00 pm, 23 January 2020 and resume regular hours on 3 February 2020.

The Academy wishes all Fellows good health and prosperity in the Year of the Mouse.

The Academy is conducting a survey in collaboration with the School of Public Health, Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine of The University of Hong Kong. The survey is commissioned by Food and Health Bureau which aims to project the demand-supply gap for different healthcare professions in Hong Kong. Manpower of different specialties is one of the areas covered in the survey.

All Fellows based in Hong Kong should have received an invitation by post to participate in the survey. It is hoped to receive as many questionnaires as possible in order to collect adequate data and produce more accurate findings for the survey. Please be reminded to return the questionnaires if you have not done so yet.

Demand notes for annual subscription will be sent in January 2020. Fellows are strongly advised to settle the payment so soon as possible.

Reminders:

1. Fellows are required to make payment of annual subscription on or before 30 June 2020. A surcharge of $1,000 or pro-rated rate where applicable will be levied for overdue payment.                                  
   
2. All payments must be received before 30 September 2020.
   According to Bylaw 6.4:
   If a member's fee or any other moneys due by a member to the Academy is not received by the Academy within 9 months after such payment falls due, despite two written reminders by the Academy to pay, the member shall automatically forfeit his membership.
   
3. The due annual subscription will be debited automatically from the designated bank or credit card account.
   
4. For Fellows aged over 70 or have reached the age of 70 before 31 December 2019, annual subscription will be waived.
   
5. Fellows residing outside Hong Kong or have reached the age of 65 and have retired from all remunerative practice/job/business must submit formal written requests for reduced rates before 31 December 2019. For details, please visit http://www.hkam.org.hk/fellows_area/reduced_rate.pdf

Credit card online payment service

Online payment service makes your settlement of annual subscription easier and more flexible. Fellows can log-on to iCMECPD website (https://www.icmecpd.hk/), choose "Fellows’ Area" > "Annual Subscription" and follow the instructions to make the payment. Click here for the Quick User Guide

e-Receipt
Fellows, who have paid annual subscription, can view and print the e-receipt by logging into iCMECPD website (“User's Corner” > “Receipt for Annual Subscription”). To help save the environment, Fellows may register for e-receipt instead of receiving a hard copy by post upon receipt of the demand notes.

A revised set of CME / CPD Guidelines has been approved and will become effective from the next cycle. Minor changes are made in Section 10, in which the new Guidelines reflect the new requirement from Medical Council of Hong Kong for the Academy to provide information on CME / CPD of all Fellows after the end of cycle (instead of providing the information on those non-compliance cases only in the past). Fellows can download the new guidelines from the following link:

Revised Principles and Guidelines on CME / CPD

Please visit the CMe-Learning of iCMECPD website (www.icmecpd.hk) for the latest CME / CPD materials.

To further enhance the online services for CME / CPD, a mobile application “iCMECPD” has been developed to capture attendance. It is now available at Apple's App Store and Google's Play. Fellows may download the App by scanning the respective QR code (or search "iCMECPD" from App Store / Google Play) and install it in smartphones with operating system in iOS (8.0 or above) or Android (4.3 or above).

The Academy sometimes gets error messages when sending messages to Fellows' registered emails, which may be caused by full mailboxes, invalid addresses, etc. A valid email address is an essential detail for Fellows to gain access to iCMECPD account and view the CME / CPD profile. In order to help us maintain an up-to-date database, please keep us informed whenever there are changes to your email address, mailing address or contact number by logging into your account of iCMECPD (http://www.icmecpd.hk). Please also be reminded to keep your registered emails active by ensuring there is sufficient mailbox capacity.

The Academy is organising the 6^th MEC on 30 May 2020, with the theme "Assessment in Postgraduate Medical Education" this year. The one-day conference features plenary lectures, symposia and workshops which will be delivered by renowned local and overseas medical professionals. Programme details can be found on the conference website https://online.hkam.org.hk/mec2020/.

Click here to register now. We look forward to seeing you during the MEC!

For enquiries, please contact the MEC 2020 Secretariat via email at [email protected].

Latest articles available at www.hkmj.org

Over the past 40 years, in vitro fertilisation has steadily increased in popularity. In this Review Article, MW Lui and colleagues provide an overview of the current status of in vitro fertilisation in Hong Kong, and highlight some key unresolved issues.

Hong Kong Med J 2019 Dec;25(6):468–72 | Epub 4 Dec 2019

Assessment and diagnosis of dementia: a review for primary healthcare professionals
Dementia is a debilitating disease associated with aging, and is becoming increasingly prevalent and costly in aging populations. However, dementia remains underdiagnosed in the primary care setting. In this Review Article, K Lam and colleagues provide a comprehensive diagnostic approach that can be utilised by primary healthcare professionals. The authors use an example case to illustrate the approach, and emphasise differences and similarities that would facilitate a differential diagnosis.

Hong Kong Med J 2019 Dec;25(6):473–82 | Epub 4 Dec 2019

Risk of post-contrast acute kidney injury in emergency department patients with sepsis

Contrast-enhanced computed tomography is a useful tool for investigating infection in patients with sepsis in the emergency department. However, acute kidney injury caused by the contrast media is a major concern. In this study, YC Hsu and colleagues investigated the association between use of contrast-enhanced computed tomography scans and the risks of acute kidney injury and other adverse outcomes in patients with sepsis.

Hong Kong Med J 2019 Dec;25(6):429–37  |  Epub 4 Dec 2019

The Chinese Public Dispensaries were established by the Chinese elite under the supervision of the Registrar General (later renamed Secretary for Chinese Affairs) in Hong Kong. These Chinese Public Dispensaries provided much-needed Western medical out-patient and midwifery services to the impoverished Chinese during the first half of the twentieth century and were the forerunners of the government out-patient clinics of today. This popular article looks at the history and legacy of the Eastern District (Wan Chai) Dispensary and Plague Hospital.

HKJCDPRI launched the “Emergency Preparedness: Get Ready. Basic Steps Campaign” recently to promote disaster preparedness among local communities.

The latest population-based survey conducted by HKJCDPRI found that 61% of the interviewees do not take preventive measures even though they are aware of growing threats of natural disasters. The campaign therefore aims to educate the public to realise the potential risks, plan and get prepared anytime to response to emergencies. In addition to promotional videos, a series of educational resources including printed materials, educational games and activities for kids have been published to convey the importance of disaster preparedness.

Further details can be found online: https://www.hkjcdpri.org.hk/emergency-preparedness-get-ready-basic-steps-campaign

Dr. H.Y. So has been appointed as the new HKJC ILCM Honorary Director, effective from December 2019.

HKJC ILCM would like to extend sincere gratitude to Dr. P.P. Chen for his guidance and advice on leading HKJC ILCM in pursuit of excellence in simulation-based medical education during the past four years. Dr. Chen will continue to work closely with HKJC ILCM.

Co-organised by HKJC ILCM and The Hong Kong College of Anaesthesiologists, ACRS Course is tailor-made for the Government Flying Service (GFS) and its officers (Air Crewman Officer, Air Medical Officer and Air Medical Nursing Officer) to strengthen their clinical and procedural skills from initial assessment on the scene to inflight treatment, especially in the face of potential acute clinical deterioration.

The first course was successfully held on 15 December 2019 with 10 GFS Officers trained. Participants found the dynamic and focused training, delivered by experienced faculty, most rewarding and beneficial. More ACRS courses have been planned in the first half year of 2020.

The CSEC intends to cultivate interest and passion in simulation-based education. Different types of simulators and simulation techniques will be applied. At the end of the course, participants will gain basic knowledge and essential skills in planning and running simulation-based training courses, developing training materials, facilitating scenario debriefing to maximise learning experience.

This new competency-based DSSIC aims to develop learners’ skills in debriefing and feedback. Techniques commonly used in simulation training courses would be taught. DSSIC is a two-day course. Targeted audience is healthcare professionals who plan and prepare for simulation-based teaching in respective fields.

PSSC aims at enhancing patient safety during procedural sedation by acquiring scientific safe practices. In the course, learners will experience interactive problem-based learning through simulated scenarios. This one-day course allows leaners to understand more about the importance of monitoring throughout the procedure and recovery process, as well as recognise and manage the sedation-related complications.

Targeted audience is doctors practising procedural sedation.

For details of the above courses, please visit the HKJC ILCM website.

Enquiries:
Tel: (852) 2871 8718
Email: [email protected]

26^th Annual General Meeting (AGM)
The AGM was held at Lim Por Yen Lecture Theatre with participation of over 30 Fellows. All the proposals on the agenda of the AGM notice were adopted.

Five Elected Members of the Academy Council as listed below were successfully elected in accordance with the HKAM Ordinance. Their two-year term of office began immediately after the AGM.

26^th Annual Fellowship Conferment Ceremony and 2019 David Todd Oration
The conferment ceremony was held at Run Run Shaw Hall after the AGM.

Presentation of Honorary Fellowship
Prof. Dennis Lo was conferred the Honorary Fellowship in recognition of his outstanding achievements and contributions to the medical profession and the community.

Admission of Academy Fellows
A total of 317 new Academy Fellows were officially admitted. Congratulations!

President Prof. C.S. Lau commended their remarkable achievements and wished them all the best for their professional endeavors. Please click here for the full list of the new Academy Fellows.

Presentation of Award for Distinguished Contributions
The Award for Distinguished Contributions was presented to Mr. Jacob Tse, the former Honorary Legal Advisor who served the Academy for 15 years.

Presentation of Awards
Best Original Paper Award (BOPA)

Best Original Research by Young Fellows (BORYF)

Best Original Research by Trainees (BORT)

Appreciation and Recognition
Plaques were presented to former Council Members in recognition of their services and contributions to the Academy Council.

The plaques were sent to the following former Council members who were unable to attend the conferment ceremony

Certificates of Appreciation were also presented to some Secretariat staff for their years of services in recognition of their dedication and contributions to the Academy.

2019 David Todd Oration
David Todd Oration was inaugurated in 1995 to honour the Founding President of the Academy, Prof. Sir David Todd, in recognition of his profound contributions to the Academy. The Academy was privileged to have Prof. John Leong, Academician of Chinese Academy of Sciences and former Chairman of Hospital Authority, to deliver the Oration titled “Twice Rendezvous with Hospital Authority”.
 

To view photos of the memorable events, please click on the link which will be valid by 16 March 2020.

The blood donation activity, co-organised by the Academy’s Social Subcommittee and the Hong Kong Red Cross Blood Transfusion Service, was held at Academy Lounge on 6 December 2019. We appreciated the support from Fellows and secretariat staff of the HKAM Jockey Club Building, who donated blood to help save lives and maintain sustainable blood supplies locally.

Hong Kong Academy of Medicine Conference & Hong Kong Primary Care Conference 2019, with the theme “People-centred Care: Towards Value-Based Innovations”, was held on 6-8 December 2019.  Under Secretary for Food and Health Dr. Chui Tak Yi, and President of World Organisation of Family Doctors (WONCA) Dr. Donald Li, officiated at the Opening Ceremony of the Conference.

The Halnan Lecture, named after the late Chairman of the Working Party on Postgraduate Medical Education and Training Dr. Keith E. Halnan, was delivered by Chairperson of Equal Opportunities Commission Mr. Ricky Chu. The lecture titled “Knocking Down Barriers to Inclusive Healthcare” highlighted the potential barriers to accessing healthcare services and facilities, and suggested ways to enhance the inclusiveness of local healthcare system.

Dr. Li delivered a plenary lecture on “Enhancing Primary Care in Hong Kong through the Provision of Integrated People-Centred Primary Care in District Health Centres”. His presentation illustrated how the comprehensive needs of individuals and communities in Hong Kong could be fulfilled, with the respect of their preferences by giving integrated people-centred health services at the newly established District Health Centres.

The conference also featured multi-specialty sessions that promoted exchanges of insights on providing the best people-centred care with value-based innovative approaches adopted.

The conference was successfully held with the participation of over 500 local and overseas delegates.

The Fellowship / Membership Conferment Ceremony of The Hong Kong College of Pathologists attended by President Prof. C.S. Lau on 23 November 2019.

The Fellowship / Membership Conferment Ceremony of The College of Dental Surgeons of Hong Kong attended by Editor Prof. Martin Wong on 24 November 2019.

28^th Admission Ceremony of New Fellows and New Members of Hong Kong College of Paediatricians attended by President Prof. C.S. Lau on 30 November 2019.

The Hong Kong College of Psychiatrists Fellowship / Membership Conferment Ceremony attended by President Prof. C.S. Lau on 14 December 2019.

Fellowship / Membership Conferment Ceremony of College of Ophthalmologists of Hong Kong attended by President Prof. C.S. Lau on 15 December 2019.

Online reservation is available now! You can scan the QR code or visit https://online.hkam.org.hk/yumcha to book a table.

Enjoy festive culinary temptations with Spring reunion specials available for lunch or dinner from 17 February to 15 March at the Academy Lounge. Click here to make an enquiry.

• Menus

Enjoy glutinous rice with Chinese preserved meat in clay pot with your families and friends by placing takeaway order(s) with the Academy now.

• Leaflet

Place order(s) now to enjoy discounts offered exclusively for Fellows

• Island Shangri-La (order form)
• Kowloon Shangri-La (online order form; promotion code: HKAM)

A wide range of well-designed, quality Academy gifts and accessories are available at the Academy Lounge. You may also place an order by completing and returning an order form to the Secretariat.

The Academy offers a wide range of venues suitable for meetings, conferences and your special occasions of different scales. Onsite logistical and technical support, event planning as well as catering services are also available.

Anniversary, reunion and birthday offers
Celebrate your special moment or make your special gathering unforgettable by hosting a lunch or dinner at the Academy. Fellows can now get a free celebratory item when dining at our venues for such occasions. Terms and conditions apply.

Make a booking enquiry online now at
https://online.hkam.org.hk/form/BookingEnquiry !

The Academy Lounge is a nicely decorated place with cosy atmosphere ideal for social occasions. The Lounge offers a menu of gourmet appetisers and drinks.

Under the CEPA arrangements, registered doctors in Hong Kong who are permanent Hong Kong residents are eligible to apply to take the National Qualification Examination in the Mainland (國家醫師資格考試). The Medical Council of Hong Kong is tasked for the receipt and vetting of applications for the examination.

Applications to sit for the 2020 National Qualification Examination are now called for by the National Medical Examination Center of the People's Republic of China. All applicants for this year's examination are required to submit their applications online. Details and the application form are available on the website of the National Medical Examination Center (http://www.nmec.org.cn). The closing date is 21 January 2020. Applicants who have already submitted their applications online before the closing date are required to submit the supporting documents in person to the Medical Council Secretariat for vetting and onward submission to the National Medical Examination Center on or before 7 February 2020.

• Domperidone for nausea and vomiting: lack of efficacy in children; reminder of contraindications in adults and adolescents
• Important safety update on ESBRIET (pirfenidone) and drug-induced liver Injury (DILI)