Reflecting the University’s dedication to working with leading institutions to enhance primary healthcare and promote community well-being, PolyU’s Joint Research Centre for Primary Health Care (JRCPHC) recently co-hosted the “2025 International Conference on Primary Health Care”.

Held in conjunction with the Schools of Nursing of Fudan University, Sun Yat-sen University, and Tianjin Medical University, the event brought together over 500 experts to explore emerging trends, challenges and strategies for interdisciplinary collaboration in primary healthcare. Distinguished guests included Dr the Hon Lam Ching-choi, Member of the Executive Council, and Dr Pang Fei-chau, Commissioner for Primary Healthcare of the Health Bureau of the HKSAR Government, along with PolyU management and academic staff.

During his opening address, Dr Pang said, “The Primary Health Commission (PHC Commission) of the Health Bureau is committed to enhancing district-based primary healthcare services by shifting from treatment-oriented to prevention-oriented and family-centric primary healthcare. The PHC Commission is dedicated to enhancing coordination among sectors and strengthening district-level services in the community.”

Professor Christopher Chao, Vice President (Research and Innovation) of PolyU, highlighted the University’s strategic approach. “PolyU’s key research strategy for building interdisciplinary research has successfully created synergy in life sciences, healthcare and technology to increase the impact in society and support governments in promoting better health and well-being,” he said.

Professor Frances Wong, Director of JRCPHC, Chair Professor of Advanced Nursing Practice and Associate Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences of PolyU, emphasised the importance of the JRCPHC’s work. Specifically its focus on research, knowledge translation, nurturing future scientists and healthcare professionals, and collaborating with stakeholders to improve patient health and to promote policy and social change.

The Conference featured keynote speeches by distinguished guests from various countries and regions. They included speakers from Australia, Canada, Mainland China, the United States, the United Kingdom, and Hong Kong, who shared valuable insights on strengthening primary healthcare systems. Their diverse perspectives across healthcare disciplines enriched the discussions and fostered interdisciplinary collaboration and knowledge exchange.

Established in 2024, the JRCPHC is a strategic partnership where PolyU collaborates with leading healthcare institutions. Uniting PolyU’s School of Nursing with the Schools of Nursing at Fudan University, Sun Yat-sen University, and Tianjin Medical University, it aims to promote disease prevention through innovative interventions and service models, and apply advanced technology for continuous, integrated care.

Distinguished guests at the Conference included Dr the Hon Lam Ching-choi (10th from left); Dr Pang Fei-chau (10th from right); Prof. Christopher Chao (9th from right); Prof. David Shum, Yeung Tsang Wing Yee and Tsang Wing Hing Professor in Neuropsychology, Chair Professor of Neuropsychology and Dean of the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences of PolyU (9th from left); Prof. Frances Wong (centre); Prof. Janelle Yorke, Angel S.P. Chan Lau Professor in Health and Longevity, Head of the School of Nursing and Chair Professor of Nursing of PolyU (8th from right), among others.

Over 500 experts from 14 countries and regions attended the 2025 International Conference on Primary Health Care.