he Patient Partnership in Action programme (PPIA) training course was jointly organised by the Hospital Authority Health InfoWorld and the Hospital Authority Institute of Health Care, with the support by the Alliance of Patients Mutual Help Organization. Designed to enhance awareness of the HA and Hong Kong's healthcare system, the inaugural course was established to strengthen the relationship between practitioners and patients. Upon completion of the course, 16 students were named PPIA Representatives and invited to participate in HA activities promoting patient involvement and collaboration to further improve local healthcare services.

atient-centred care" is one of the commitments of the Hospital Authority (HA) for improving service quality and promoting health in the population. It is important that patients are engaged in the process of care and their needs addressed. The Patient Advisory Committee (PAC) was established in 2011 to facilitate communication between patient representatives and the senior management.

The PAC is chaired by HA Chief Executive, Dr Leung Pak-Yin. Nine active patient representatives from the major disease groups were invited to join the PAC as members on a pilot basis. The Committee provides a forum for effective communication between the Chief Executive and patients in areas relating to corporate policies, governance, key issues with impact on patient care, service gaps and service developments.

During the first formal PAC meeting held on 15 April 2011, Dr Leung updated members on the doctors and nurses manpower shortage in HA and the strategies to tackle the issue. With better understanding, members were convinced that HA is in control of the situation which will not be affecting patient care. The meeting also requested members to input on 2012-13 HA Annual Plan and pass their opinions to the Strategy & Planning Division after collection from patient groups.

The next meeting will be held in September 2011.