Hong Kong opens its first children's hospital

HONG KONG - Hong Kong Children's Hospital (HKCH), the first hospital specialized for children in Hong Kong, commenced provision of clinical services on Tuesday.

Located at the Kai Tak development area, HKCH, which operates by phases, consists of two 11-storey towers, with a planned capacity of about 500 day and night beds.

HKCH provides multidisciplinary treatment for complex, serious and uncommon pediatric diseases for patients under 18 across Hong Kong. Specialist outpatient clinics for oncology, nephrology, and metabolic medicine began operation during the initial phase. Other outpatient clinics and inpatient services will be commissioned gradually since the beginning of 2019.

Nine patients with kidney diseases came to HKCH on Tuesday, with the 13-year-old boy Julian being the first to register for clinical services. Julian began to see doctors when he was at the age of 12. He has congenital kidney disease.

"The hospital is totally patient-friendly. With quick registration, smooth medical examination, and patient doctors and nurses, Julian was in good mood during the whole medical services," said Julian's mother.

To help relieve children's stress, colorful decor, abundant greenery, natural light and animal-themed wayfinding features were designated for the hospital.

The hospital also provides facilities and areas for children to play and dine, and overnight stay facilities for parents to take care of their children.