Since the launch of our inpatient service in March 2019, we have been expanding our services continuously and achieving results on different fronts. It is encouraging to see our teams and staff being awarded recently, which is a recognition of our service standard.

In these two years, HKCH took in over 330 new cancer cases. Leukaemia, brain / spinal neoplasms, and lymphomas were among the top three. More than 70 haematopoietic stem cell transplants were performed, other than chemotherapy, targeted therapy, immunotherapy and radionuclide therapy. We also saw an 80% increase of operations in 2020/21 from the previous year. Examples of ultra-major operations conducted are open heart surgery, brain tumor excision, cleft lip and palate repair, and kidney transplant.

These show that the conditions of many of our patients are complex or critical, involving difficult and high risk treatments. On one hand, we must recognize the limitation of medicine. Complications cannot be completely avoided, and sometimes there is simply no cure no matter how hard we try. We should not feel frustrated or second guess ourselves, but stick to our value and continue to serve patients professionally.

On the other hand, we have to be more empathetic. Communicate well with patients and their families. Prepare them for the possible outcome. Address their worries. For those approaching the end of life, offer support such as palliative care so they can find comfort. These are all important to gain their trust.

Dr Lee Tsz-leung
Hospital Chief Executive