Sphere
#37
2015
20
Retail focus
generation of graduates
trained under rigourous
conditions in Hong Kong’s
finest universities is finding
a new career path in a
modern clinical setting with a ground-
breaking programme introduced through
Watsons pharmacies. Patients are reaping
the benefits of TCM as the practitioner’s
art now accommodates 21st century
lifestyles.
Modern options
In late 2013, A S Watson Group (ASW)
introduced Chinese medicine services in its
health and beauty chain, Watsons, in Hong
Kong’s Aberdeen district. Consultation
and Chinese medicine prescription
were offered by certified practitioners
in a modern setting. The success of that
programme led to its expansion, and today
eight Watsons stores in Hong Kong serve
patients with traditional Chinese medical
treatments and herbal medicine.
This new medical service broadens the
career options of graduates from Chinese
medicine schools. While many seeking
a career in TCM are motivated by the
desire to heal, some are discouraged by
the lack of a clear career path, particularly
as the industry has been dominated
by aging practitioners in antiquated
settings. ASW changed that by creating
an innovative practice model, allowing
healthcare providers to perfect their
craft in conjunction with other medical
professionals in modern environments,
supported by the latest technology.
In 1998, universities in Hong Kong started
offering full-time undergraduate degree
programmes for Chinese medicine. So far,
three universities in Hong Kong offer such
degrees: Hong Kong Baptist University,
Chinese University of Hong Kong and
the University of Hong Kong. Graduation
requires six years of learning and intensive
training. The training at the universities
had been upgraded, but the industry has
not kept up. Graduates would likely end up
in traditional clinics with restricted career
prospects. But now, because of ASW,
change is afoot.
Professional progress
Watsons not only offers modern facilities,
integrated practice areas, quality
medicine and the latest technology, but
practitioners have the opportunity to
continue their professional development.
Watsons’ Operations Controller and Chief
Pharmacist Margaret Lau explains that
Watsons hosts a monthly meeting of the
Health Professional Team which consists
of pharmacists, dietitians and Chinese
medicine practitioners (CMPs) to share and
exchange medical experience and skills. The
sharing is a way to create synergy among
the health professionals, allowing Watsons’
patients to receive advice from not one,
but three professionals at a time. It is also a
chance for the CMPs to share their views on
management of common medical problems
such as diabetes and high blood pressure
from the in-store dietitians and pharmacists.
There is a monthly training among Watsons’
CMPs on case studies to improve on the
services provided to patients.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) was always about much more than the
medicines the doctor prescribed. It was a holistic approach to complete healing.
But rapid change in lifestyles, careers and even new ailments mean that TCM
has to keep up with the modern world. Watsons is leading the way.
modernisation
The ancient art of cupping is practised in a
hygienic clinical setting.
TCM Retail:
Ancient Wisdom,
Modern Strategy
