Hong Kong is taking a groundbreaking step in medical career development with a new dual-track pathway that promises to transform how doctors balance clinical practice, teaching, and research. Announced on July 28, 2025, by the Health Bureau in collaboration with the Hospital Authority (HA) and medical schools from the University of Hong Kong (HKU) and the Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK), this initiative represents a strategic approach to nurturing medical talent in the region.
The core of this innovative pathway allows eligible doctors to hold joint positions across two prestigious institutions – simultaneously working with the Hospital Authority and either HKU or CUHK. This flexible arrangement enables medical professionals to allocate their time across clinical services, teaching, and research activities based on their individual professional interests and needs.
Unlike traditional employment models in Hong Kong’s healthcare and academic sectors, the new pathway offers customized appointment structures and clinical work arrangements. Doctors participating in this program can now pursue a more integrated career that bridges clinical practice with academic pursuits.
Secretary for Health Prof Lo Chung-mau highlighted the significance of this approach, emphasizing that it represents a fundamental shift in how medical talent is developed and supported. The pathway provides doctors with unprecedented opportunities, including the potential to be conferred university professor titles, which significantly enhances their professional standing and recognition.
The initiative’s broader goals extend beyond individual career development. By creating a more accommodating professional environment, Hong Kong aims to attract and retain doctors who are passionate about combining clinical work with academic and research contributions. Prof Lo expressed particular hope of drawing non-locally trained doctors interested in clinical research and innovation, thereby enriching the local medical talent pool.
Initial implementation of the dual-track pathway has already begun, with the first cohort of participants already selected. Five doctors have been chosen for the program: four from the Hong Kong Children’s Hospital appointed through HKU’s medical school, and one from the New Territories East Cluster’s Department of Intensive Care appointed by CUHK’s medical school. Additional doctors from the New Territories East Cluster are expected to join CUHK’s medical school within the year.
This strategic approach reflects a multidisciplinary vision for medical careers in Hong Kong. By supporting doctors in simultaneously pursuing clinical, educational, and research objectives, the initiative aims to strengthen the healthcare system through enhanced professional development and the integration of innovative practices.
While specific details about application processes and long-term program outcomes are still emerging, the initial rollout demonstrates a promising framework for medical professionals seeking a more holistic career path. The dual-track development pathway represents a forward-thinking solution to supporting medical talent, offering unprecedented flexibility and opportunities for doctors committed to advancing healthcare through integrated clinical, teaching, and research roles.
As Hong Kong continues to evolve its approach to medical professional development, this innovative pathway stands as a testament to the region’s commitment to nurturing world-class medical talent through progressive, supportive career structures.
