Hong Kong Children’s Hospital opens with youngsters’ wellbeing at heart

The new Hong Kong Children’s Hospital (HKCH) is about to open in phases with the specialist outpatient clinic (SOPC) going into service first on 18 December this year. The hospital will take appointments for follow-up oncology cases from the Prince of Wales Hospital and the Queen Mary Hospital, nephrology cases from the Princess Margaret Hospital as well as cases identified in the newborn screening programme for inborn errors of metabolism. In the run-up to its opening, different departments have been conducting drills to test the readiness of various aspects and ensure smooth operation. HASLink invited Tse Miu-ling, Ward Manager at HKCH, to tell us about four special features of the SOPC that reflect the concept of being a children-centred and family-friendly hospital.

Consultation and diagnostic imaging in the same block

Children may feel more ease in this circus‑themed CT suite.

The HKCH is designed to provide convenience to patients and parents, with outpatient consultation and imaging examination taking place in the same block. Patients register and pay at the shroff located on the ground floor of the Clinical Tower (Tower B) before taking escalator to the SOPC on the first floor. If imaging tests, such as X-ray, MRI, CT and ultrasound, are needed, patients can simply go up one floor by escalator to the Radiology Department. The examination rooms are decorated with the theme of ocean, space, circus and starry night to create a friendly atmosphere so as to reduce anxiety and stress of patients.

Clear orientation with colour‑coded consultation zones

Patients will be given clear directions on where to wait for consultation after registration.

The SOPC has around 50 consultation rooms which are divided into four colour zones of yellow, turquoise, green, and pink, to make it easier for children and families to find their way around. There are toys and books to keep children occupied and entertained while they are waiting to see the doctor.

Play area reduces anxiety

A play area with toys and books provides a place for children of different ages to relax.

The play area is filled with books and toys and is disinfected on a daily basis. Volunteers will be recruited to help explain to children the examination and treatment processes through playing games so that they are psychologically prepared with reduced anxiety.

Adjoining rooms facilitate joint consultation and teaching

Two regular consultation rooms can be converted into one large room for joint consultation and teaching.

The HKCH combines clinical service, teaching and research. There is a pair of large consultation rooms in SOPC which allow joint consultation by doctors from different specialties and facilitate medical students to observe and learn.

Q&A about HKCH

Q: What kinds of animals are hiding in the central rehabilitation garden?

A: Monkeys, rabbits, flamingoes, giraffes, elephants, and sheep.

Q: What is the hole in the shroff and pharmacy counters for?

A: It is for users to put their crutches or umbrellas.

Q: Why are there ‘ears’ on some of the female toilet seats?

A: These small toilet seats are specially designed for children.

Q: Why are desks in the consultation rooms round‑shaped?

A: The round-shaped design can encourage patients to actively participate in treatment through discussion. It is also easier for doctors to perform physical exams, such as fine motor skills.