A new Traditional Chinese Medicine clinic has opened at Tupua Tamasese Meaole Hospital at Moto‘otua, offering free services including acupuncture, moxibustion, cupping and physical therapy.
The clinic is located at the former laboratory area of the hospital and was officially opened today after years of negotiations between Samoa and China.
A team of ten Chinese medical specialists is providing the services. The current team is the 24th Chinese medical team to serve in Samoa under the programme.
The Minister of Health, Hon. Vaaaoao Salumalo Alofipo, acknowledged the Government and people of the People’s Republic of China for their continued support for Samoa’s health sector.
“First and foremost, I wish to express our sincere gratitude to the Government and the people of the People’s Republic of China for their continued friendship and unwavering support for Samoa’s health sector,” he said.
“This clinic stands as a strong symbol of the enduring partnership between our two nations and our shared commitment to improving the health and well-being of our people.
“I extend our deepest appreciation to His Excellency Ambassador Fei Mingxing for your presence today and for your leadership in strengthening this valuable collaboration. Your support continues to make a meaningful difference in advancing healthcare services in Samoa.”
Samoa was the first country in the South Pacific to receive a Chinese medical team in 1986. Over the past four decades, China has sent hundreds of medical doctors to Samoa.
Chinese Ambassador to Samoa, Fei Mingxing, said the opening was an important moment in the partnership between Samoa and China, which reaches 51 years this year.
“Today’s occasion marks a historic event in the China-Samoa partnership, which will celebrate fifty-one years this year,” he said.
“I also thank the Government of Samoa, especially the Ministry of Health, for valuing the work that the team from China does.
“Together, the teams from China and Samoa have fought measles, COVID-19, and other health challenges.”
The clinic is led by Dr Kong and Dr Xu Daniel from the Chinese medical team, who both have more than a decade of experience in Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Dr Kong said Traditional Chinese Medicine is based on the concept of harmonising the body with nature and focuses on holistic regulation.
“In Samoa, we have noticed that chronic conditions such as chronic pain and insomnia plague many residents,” he said.
“In response, our medical team will offer complementary treatments such as acupuncture, cupping, and physical therapy through this TCM clinic.
“We hope they will bring new health options to the people of Samoa.”
The opening was attended by representatives of the Government of Samoa, the Ministry of Health, and the Government of China.
Hon. Vaaaoao urged members of the public to use the opportunity to access the free health services.
