The HKPA Forum, organized by the Hong Kong Physiotherapy Association, was successfully held yesterday (April 10). We extend our heartfelt thanks to our esteemed speakers—Ms. Mandy MAK, Prof. Raymond TSANG, Dr. Ivan SU, and Mr. Alexander WOO—as well as to all participants for their active engagement and contributions to the event.
The forum featured insightful presentations on several key topics, including:
- the introduction of the Supplementary Medical Professions (Amendment) Bill 2025, which brings significant changes to the profession;
- reviewing the historical evolution of direct access initiatives, highlighting the challenges faced, the progress achieved through the Direct Access Working Group, and the importance of balancing stakeholder interests while safeguarding patient safety;
- the rollout of clinical protocols and frameworks was discussed, with plans to build these protocols step by step—starting with more common conditions and gradually expanding over time;
- The development of the Primary Care Directory and the importance of electronic documentation systems to improve clinical handover processes and enhance patient tracking was also emphasized;
- the discussion of the suggested list of “Emergency or Other Certain Circumstances Approved by the SMPC” and Working Group’s suggestions for expanding it;
- revision of the Code of Practice by the Physical Therapists Board (PTB).
During the engaging discussion session, participants from diverse clinical experiences and settings shared valuable suggestions and concerns. These included ideas for incorporating more CPD courses related to medical screening and imaging, learning from advocacy work in other countries, and utilizing AI technology to enhance screening standards. Concerns were raised regarding the timeline for expanding clinical protocols, the definition of emergency situations, and the registration procedures for freelance physiotherapists in the eHealth system.
As the next steps, HKPA will compile and review participants’ feedback gathered through the evaluation link. We encourage Physiotherapy colleagues to continue sharing their suggestions by emailing Ms. Sara Poon via sarapoonphysio@gmail.com and cc to Mr. Alexander WOO via president.hkpa@gmail.com. We also strongly advise all physiotherapists to register in the Primary Care Directory and to consider joining HKPA to support the profession’s growth and further professional development opportunities.
We extend our deepest gratitude to the Direct Access Working Group for their tireless efforts and contributions. Once again, thank you to all participants—we hope you found the forum informative and meaningful.
The first Meeting among Bill Committees will be held on April 22, 2025! HKPA is looking forward to meeting PTB before the meeting!