program book

Foreword for the 14 th Congress of AsianFederation of Catholic Medical AssociationIn 1953 the Guild of St. Luke, St. Cosmas and St. Damian Hong Kong wasfounded by a small group of Catholic doctors and the first meeting was held atRicci Hall. As one of the founding members of the Guild I did wonder then whywe should have another association for doctors and how would the practice ofmedicine by a Catholic doctor differ from that of a non-Christian doctor, since alldoctors should abide by the time-honoured Hippopcratic Oath. An ethical doctorirrespective of his or her religious belief should always put his patient’s interestfirst and do all he can to cure him and relieve him of his sufferings.As I gain more experience in my medical practice and as I witness the dramaticadvances made in medical sciences in recent years, I become more and moreconvinced that Catholic doctors should be able to do more for their patients andtheir families. Catholic doctors also face more challenges in their daily practice.We put more emphasis on upholding the sanctity of life and regard for humandignity. It is therefore most welcome that the 14th Congress of AFCMA is held inHong Kong this year and that the Guild of St. Luke, St.Cosmas and St. Damian isa chief organizer .The Congress gives an opportunity to Catholic doctors, nursesand those engaged in patient care in the Asian region to get together to discussand share their experience and concerns. We can also do some soul searching onhow the teaching of Christ can help us resolve the dilemma we face in our dailypractice. The presence of the Catholic clergy at the Congress will be a guidinglight in the process.I am sure the Congress will be a resounding success.Professor Rosie YoungVice-Patron14 th Congress of AFCMAAsian Federation Of Catholic Medical Associations 14 th AFCMA Congress 2008v