The Hong Kong government has taken a significant step towards recognizing and expanding the role of allied health professionals with the Supplementary Medical Professions (Amendment) Bill 2025. Scheduled for its first reading at the Legislative Council on March 26, this bill aims to redefine the professional landscape by renaming “supplementary medical professions” as “allied health professions.” It also outlines conditions under which patients can access physiotherapy and occupational therapy services without needing a referral from a doctor. The legislation further introduces new registration pathways for non-locally trained professionals and aligns Chinese medicine practitioners more closely with allied health professionals.

This groundbreaking bill seeks to modernize and broaden the scope of practice for allied health professionals. One of its key features is the establishment of three scenarios where individuals can directly consult physiotherapists or occupational therapists. These include cases covered by recognized clinical protocols, situations diagnosed by a registered doctor or Chinese medicine practitioner within the past year, and emergencies or community-approved settings. This shift not only empowers patients but also enhances the autonomy and responsibility of these healthcare providers.

In addition to direct service provisions, the bill integrates Chinese medicine practitioners into the broader healthcare framework. By allowing referrals between Chinese medicine practitioners and allied health professionals, it fosters interdisciplinary collaboration while maintaining high professional standards. Both parties must agree on shared knowledge and competencies to ensure safe and effective care.

For the upcoming Chinese Medicine Hospital, the bill permits relevant allied health professionals to accept referrals from Chinese medicine practitioners, facilitating the hospital's phased operational commencement later this year. Furthermore, two new registration pathways have been proposed: one limited and another temporary, aimed at accommodating qualified non-locally trained professionals. These pathways are designed to enrich the local talent pool without compromising quality.

Continuing professional development becomes mandatory under the bill, ensuring ongoing education and skill enhancement among practitioners. Structural changes within the governing council and its constituent boards aim to strengthen regulation and promote cross-disciplinary cooperation. Additionally, technical adjustments extend practising certificate validity periods and revise fee structures.

With these comprehensive reforms, the Supplementary Medical Professions (Amendment) Bill 2025 marks a pivotal moment in Hong Kong's healthcare evolution. By redefining professional titles, expanding scopes of practice, introducing innovative registration pathways, and mandating continuous learning, it sets a robust foundation for future advancements in allied health care delivery.