he Hospital Authority invited the Center for Medical Simulation of Harvard Medical School to conduct a Host-Site Instructor Training Course in March, 2011. A total of 20 physicians and nurses from the Accident and Emergency Departments joined the course. Simulation-based medical training has been widely accepted as a preferred training mode for patient safety. It also enhances clinical competency of healthcare professionals in terms of risk management, which is vital for building a safer healthcare system.

In this multi-method training, participants learn how to teach clinical, behavioural, and cognitive skills through simulation scenarios, lectures, group discussions and practical exercise. Course subjects include "Building a challenging and safe learning environment" and "Utilising effective debriefing techniques", all inspired by a wide spectrum of disciplines such as aviation, healthcare, psychology, experiential learning, and organisational behavior.

he Hospital Authority is pleased to launch the revamped website of its online knowledge management tool e-Knowledge Gateway (eKG). Navigation has been improved with the addition of a navigation bar, which stays in place as you surf other pages. The front page lists popular resources for quick access while top attractions are highlighted with a rotating display window. The new Library Services page allows users to view their library record and renew book loans conveniently. Search functions on eKG have also been enhanced and the Gateway Search now covers HA's internal and external resources.

More new features will be gradually rolled out. For instance, in response to the nuclear incident in Japan, a new radiation safety page has been added to provide updated information for contingency planning in Hong Kong. Users can find updated patient information leaflets on the Patient Information Leaflets for Informed Consent (PILIC) page.

Stay tuned for upcoming eKG enhancements at www.ekg.org.hk and email your comments on the new webpage to eKG@ha.org.hk .

he new Hospital Authority Staff Co-op Shop on the 2/F of Hospital Authority Building recently reopened in May 2011 with a new look. After a comprehensive tendering process, MentalCare Connect Co Ltd was selected as the new Co-op Shop contractor. This new partnership will allow HA staff to continue enjoying a wide range of deals from the Staff Wellbeing Team of HA's Human Resources Department - with exciting new arrivals such as body care products, health food and a wide selection of snacks. Happy shopping!

hree teams from HA participated in the annual Tuen Mun Dragon BoatRace on June 6, 2011. We salute their positive energy and team spirit!