'CUHK well placed to increase medical school places'
The outgoing dean of medicine at the Chinese University said on Thursday that the institution could significantly increase the number of medical school places to tackle a shortage of doctors.  Professor Francis Chan, who is stepping down this month, said his faculty could admit 400 medical students a year, up from the current 295.  He said Hong Kong is known for its excellence in providing high-quality medical care, and this reputation sets it apart from other places. “Without enough number of healthcare professionals, we won't be able to maintain our high-quality healthcare service to support, to serve our Hong Kong people,” he said.  “Also, by having a high-quality healthcare service, we will be able to attract overseas international pharmaceutical companies to believe that Hong Kong is a place where they can develop their new drugs, their new diagnostic equipment.” Chan will be succeeded by Philip Chiu, associate dean of the faculty.