Rising majestically on Cheung Chau Island stands St John Hospital a beacon of hope and healing. Its history whispers tales of generosity and community spirit.
St John Hospital wasn’t always known by its current name. Originally founded in November 1934 it began life as the St John Ambulance Association Haw Par Hospital. Named after the generous tycoon brothers Aw Boon Haw and Aw Boon Par the hospital started as a tuberculosis sanatorium. The Victorian-style building still bears the name Haw Par Hospital at its entrance a silent tribute to its founders. Imagine the bustling scene as these influential businessmen laid the foundation stone in 1932.
Before St John Hospital opened Cheung Chau residents relied on the Cheung Chau Fong Bin Hospital for medical care. This hospital however offered traditional Chinese medicine. Its closure in 1988 left St John Hospital as the island’s sole hospital. It is a vital part of the community providing much-needed primary emergency and community health services.
Today St John Hospital continues to serve the approximately 12000 residents of Cheung Chau. It boasts 87 beds and 113 full-time equivalent staff. Services range from a 24-hour Accident and Emergency department to specialized care in medicine chest care maternal and child health family planning and more. A methadone detoxification clinic physiotherapy X-ray occupational therapy chaplaincy and dietetic services are also available. The hospital even provides courtesy transportation for certain patients.
Since January 22 2010 St John Hospital has held the prestigious designation of a Grade III historic building. Its history is inextricably linked to the island’s identity. St John Hospital is more than just a hospital it’s a testament to the enduring spirit of community care in Cheung Chau. A place where the past intertwines with the present to offer healing and hope.