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Following is the speech (English only ) by the Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food, Dr Yeoh Eng-kiong, at the Re-Opening Ceremony ofthe Hong Kong Medical Association Wan Chai Headquarters

today (March 1):

Dr. Lo, Distinguished Guests, Ladies and Gentlemen,

It is my great pleasure to be amongst you at the Re-opening Ceremony of the Hong Kong Medical Association (HKMA) Wan Chai Headquarters. Since its establishment over eight decades ago, the HKMA has made significant contributions to the health of the people and the welfare of medical practitioners in Hong Kong. Its Headquarters serves as a symbol of solidarity among the medical fraternity.

Thanks to the hard work and perseverance of our forefathers, the medical profession has earned the respect of the community. Corollary to the trust and honour upon our shoulders is patients' expectation that we maintain a high standard of medical practice and competence. Failure to meet these expectations will undermine the standing of the medical profession.

In this modern world, a medical degree would not necessarily secure us a well-paid job and a comfortable life. We must continue to keep abreast of times in our professional development in the face of continuous change and innovation. The HKMA has played an important role in facilitating the medical profession to meet these challenges by promoting lifelong learning and providing a well-coordinated continuous medical education programme for all members of the profession. I must thank the Association for its leadership and support.

In this knowledge-based era, doctors no longer make all health decisions on behalf of their patients. Patients expect doctors to involve them as partners in the decision-making process. To meet this new challenge, doctors have to make use of information and communication technologies to provide unbiased advice and support their patients with the best available information, while respecting their individual values and preferences. In connection with this, I am happy to note that the HKMA provides essential multi-media health information and advice for the general public to make informed choices about their own health.

The HKMA also encourages its members to participate in a variety of recreational and leisure activities. These social gatherings and events allow members to network and share health experiences in a friendly and relaxed atmosphere. More importantly, HKMA members and supporters never lose sight of their social responsibilities by participating in annual fund-raising events such as "Trailwalkers" and Charity Concert.

On this memorable occasion, I wish to congratulate the HKMA for its past achievements and wish the HKMA every success in its future endeavours.

Thank you.

End/Saturday, March 1, 2003

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