Actions speak louder than words
Dr Chow Kai-ming
Chief of Service / Consultant (Medicine and Therapeutics), Prince of Wales Hospital
By 7:30am, nephrologist Dr Chow Kai-ming is already busy admitting patients in the ward. Although the night-shift doctors remain on duty from 10pm until 9am the following day, Dr Chow returns to the hospital early to share the workload. "I came up with ‘AM730' because I wish my colleagues to see a glimmer of hope," he says.
A five-time recipient of the Teacher of the Year Award at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Dr Chow believes that the essence of teaching lies in leading by example. "Teaching is not about coaching students to be number one, even I failed my specialist examination twice before passing on the third attempt," he shares. "By observing my consultations, students learn how to interact with people and manage real-life situations. While medical theories can be learnt online, the art of healing and caring for a patient's heart is something artificial intelligence can never replace."
On Valentine's Day, Dr Chow received a clay flower handmade by a patient's daughter, who was deeply touched by his promise never to give up any patient, no matter how scarce the resources. Although her father was gone, her gratitude endured. "When a patient says, ‘I am so lucky to have had your help', or asks ‘Can I see you again next time?', it truly warms my heart. I like playing as a striker because it allows me to help patients directly," he says.
Dr Chow admits that doctors are not infallible. Instead of waiting to be ‘exposed', he believes in proactively informing patients to rebuild trust. "Explaining the situation sincerely and following up on their treatment is the best way to protect their rights." He even invites patients affected by medical incidents to share their stories at talks. "I feel guilty but not ashamed. Sharing these experiences with students and colleagues helps medical profession move forward together."
Committed to open communication, Dr Chow even gives patients his DECT phone number so they can reach him directly. "Giving patients peace of mind is far more important than prescribing more medicine," he concludes.
