Chongqing - Luo Yang, a member of the Chongqing Municipal Committee of the Chinese People's Political Consultative Conference (CPPCC) and Vice Dean of Chongqing Medical University, said that his proposal for the upcoming Chongqing Two Sessions will focus on advancing scientific research and public health education to improve public well-being.

"As a doctor with over 20 years of frontline experience, I deeply understand the importance of raising health awareness among the public," said Luo. Luo has long focused on popularizing health science, working on systematic and standardized research in both theory and practice, particularly by leveraging the regional characteristics of western China.

Luo Yang (center) conducts sample testing in the laboratory. (Photo/Luo Yang)

To further promote health science outreach, Luo has spearheaded the establishment of a science popularization studio, bringing together a multidisciplinary team of experts. He has also launched a public platform for health science, publishing a series of original health education videos, comics, and articles to enhance public awareness of health issues.

As President of the Chongqing Science Popularization Association, Luo has worked with health experts to establish the Central and Western China Health Science Popularization Alliance. In December 2024, the association will officially launch the alliance by signing a strategic cooperation agreement with key institutions from these regions.

Luo, who has long been concerned with public access to medical services, made significant progress with his proposal at last year's Chongqing Two Sessions, titled "Suggestions for Actively Promoting the Mutual Recognition of Medical Test Results between Sichuan and Chongqing."

Recognizing the geographical proximity and cultural similarities between the two regions, Luo identified the challenge of unevenly distributed medical resources, which led to repeated medical tests for some patients. His proposal aims to connect patients' medical histories seamlessly across different locations.

Luo suggested creating a consistent standard for medical test results in both regions to establish a unified technical standard. This would ensure comparability and mutual recognition of results across medical institutions.

He also emphasized the need to strengthen the infrastructure for information technology, urging the promotion of interconnectivity among medical institutions' information systems in Sichuan and Chongqing. The goal is to create a unified data platform that facilitates the sharing and transmission of patient medical information.

Luo Yang (second from right) carried out science popularization activities in the village. (Photo/Luo Yang)

Furthermore, Luo proposed establishing medical testing centers in both regions to collaborate in promoting the mutual recognition of test results. These centers would provide professional support for difficult and high-level tests, ensuring the accurate exchange of information.

He suggested creating a reward-and-punishment mechanism for medical institutions involved in the mutual recognition program. Institutions that actively participate would receive incentives, while those delaying or obstructing the process would be subject to oversight.

Luo also suggested training medical personnel in the mutual recognition of test results to enhance their awareness and operational proficiency. This would ensure that they fully understand and can properly implement recognized medical test results.

In July 2024, the health commissions of Sichuan and Chongqing jointly issued a notice to promote the mutual recognition of test results in public hospitals at the second level and above. By the end of 2024, 935 hospitals across the two regions will be included in the mutual recognition system, covering 161 medical tests.

"This means that patients can now have their test results conducted at any qualified medical institution in either province, recognized by other institutions, without needing to undergo repeated testing," Luo said.