Organised by the renowned International AIDS Society (IAS), the annual champions of the “#Me and My Healthcare Provider” campaign 2023 was officially announced. This year, four Hong Kong healthcare providers have been selected as the champions:
- Dr. Tsang Tak Yin
- Dr. Wilson Lam
- Dr. To Ki Wai
- Ms. Shan Chan
Descriptions:
1. Dr. Tsang Tak Yin
Dr. Tsang is a consultant at the Department of Medicine & Geriatrics and the Medical Director of the Hospital Authority Infectious Disease Centre at Princess Margaret Hospital in Hong Kong. Dr. Tsang has also been involved in designing training software for healthcare professionals across public hospitals to reduce the stigma towards PLHIV.
“His noble character, compassionate service, diligent attitude, and patient care have helped patients reach the “U=U” (Undetectable equals Untransmittable) level as quickly as possible, greatly reducing the risk of complications.” – Words from the nominator Tam*
2. Dr. Wilson Lam
Dr. Lam has been a clinician at the HIV Clinical Service of Queen Elizabeth Hospital, Hong Kong since 2002. He is currently Honorary Clinical Assistant Professor of the LKS Faculty of Medicine, University of Hong Kong. Besides, he is serving on the councils of the Hong Kong Society for Infectious Diseases, Hong Kong Society for HIV Medicine and the Hong Kong AIDS Foundation. He concerns the trend of the development of infectious diseases and promotes the public awareness of HIV.
“Although we have not completely eliminated public discrimination, the current level of acceptance towards individuals with HIV is much greater than it was 10 years ago, and Dr. Lam’s contribution in this regard is invaluable.” – Words from the nominator Chan*
3. Dr. To Ki Wai
Following the infectious disease training, Dr. To joined the Special Preventive Programme and started career in taking care of people living with HIV.
As a medical practitioner taking care of PLHIV, Dr. To strives to provide qualitied and comprehensive medical care to patients. Dr. To seeks opportunities to improve the public understanding of the disease, through various campaigns conducted by the Red Ribbon Centre, different non-government organization or the Hong Kong Society for HIV Medicine.
“When I was first diagnosed, I was filled with fear and had no idea how to cope. However, through Dr. To’s careful explanations and unwavering support, I slowly began to accept my situation. It has been several years since my diagnosis, and fortunately, I have been continuously supported by Dr. To. Her support has been the driving force behind my ongoing medication and treatment.” – Words from the nominator Tse*
4. Ms. Shan Chan
Throughout the early years of my specialty nurse training, I had the privilege of listening to the stories of countless patients. They shared their experiences about the disease, their relationships with partners, family, and friends, and the impact of societal stigma on their lives. To be better connected with and to support my patients, I undertook counseling courses to enhance my communication skills. Empathy, engagement, and empowerment became the foundational pillars of my approach to care for individuals with HIV.
“I am a MSM who was infected with HIV several years ago, and the nurse in charge of my case at that time was Miss Chan Shan. I am grateful for her continuous care and concern. Her patience and attentiveness made me feel warmth and care, helping me overcome this challenging period.” – Words from the nominator Ng*
*To protect the identity of the nominator, a pseudonym is used.