Welcome Message

Dear colleagues and friends,

On behalf of The Hong Kong College of Family Physicians (HKCFP), it is my distinct honour and privilege to invite you to the WONCA Asia Pacific Regional Conference 2027, to be held from 22 - 25 April 2027 at the iconic Xiqu Centre in Hong Kong SAR, China. As 2027 marks the 50th Anniversary of HKCFP, it would be our great honour to celebrate this significant milestone by hosting the WONCA Asia Pacific Regional Conference in Hong Kong.

The theme of the conference, “Family Doctors: The Heart of Quality Primary Healthcare”, captures a fundamental principle that lies at the very core of our profession. Across the globe, family doctors are the first point of contact, the trusted advisor, and the ongoing sponsor in health for individuals, families, and communities. As WONCA has long affirmed, family doctors are essential to high-quality, cost-effective primary healthcare — building strong, multi-professional teams and delivering holistic, person-centred care across the various stages of one's life course. In Hong Kong, the Government has been strengthening district-based family-centric community health systems, recognising the family doctor as the main primary care provider who delivers comprehensive, continuing and coordinated care to our citizens.

This conference is more than just an academic gathering; it is a celebration of our shared commitment to advancing family medicine across the Asia-Pacific region and beyond. Since 1979, the WONCA Asia Pacific Regional Conference has brought together participants worldwide, serving as an important platform for sharing of experience, updating skills and knowledge, and networking among the attendants. Following the resounding success of our last regional conference held in Hong Kong in 2009, we are thrilled to welcome the global family medicine community back to showcase the warmth and dynamism of Hong Kong.

The choice of venue is a special one. The Xiqu Centre is an award-winning architectural landmark in the heart of the West Kowloon Cultural District — a gateway where ancient Chinese operatic traditions meet contemporary design. As we deliberate on the future of primary healthcare, surrounded by the elegance of this centre that celebrates both heritage and innovation, I trust that you will find the setting as inspiring and memorable as the scientific programme we have prepared for you.

I would wholeheartedly encourage you to begin planning your journey to Hong Kong now if you have not done so already. Mark your calendars for 22 - 25 April 2027. Let us come together — as family doctors, educators, researchers, and advocates — to share knowledge, forge new collaborations, and reaffirm our central role at the heart of quality primary healthcare for all.

I look forward to welcoming you to our vibrant city. See you in Hong Kong in 2027!


Dr. David CHAO
President
The Hong Kong College of Family Physicians
Chairman
Host Organising Committee, WONCA Asia Pacific Regional Conference 2027 Hong Kong