Chongqing - The Eighth Chinese Medical Team in Barbados, invited for the first time by the island’s Ministry of Health and Wellness, co-hosted a novel "Community Health Pop-up" on May 9, bringing traditional Chinese acupuncture and emergency care knowledge directly to local residents. The event marked the start of a regular cooperation mechanism aimed at making TCM services sustainably available to the Barbadian public, adding a warm touch to the growing friendship between the two nations.

The Chinese Medical Aid Team in Barbados poses for a group photo. (Photo/Dr. Cui Kun)

The pop-up clinic drew a continuous flow of visitors seeking consultation and treatment. Dr. Mou Qiujie, a TCM acupuncture specialist, became the focus of attention as he applied fine needles to more than 20 patients suffering from neck, shoulder, back, and knee problems. With precise needle placement, many experienced immediate pain relief and improved joint mobility. Patients showed their approval with thumbs-up gestures, expressing both surprise and satisfaction at the “magical” effects of Chinese medicine. Nearby, anesthesiologist Dr. Cui Hong patiently explained basic life support skills to attendees. Through simulated scenarios and hands-on guidance, she demonstrated lifesaving techniques, including cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR). The easy-to-understand explanations and interactive practice sessions helped community members grasp essential skills in a relaxed atmosphere.

"TCM Friday" Community Health Pop-up draws an enthusiastic crowd. (Photo/Dr. Cui Kun)

“Acupuncture treatment often requires a course of sessions. Immediate relief should be followed by consistent care,” explained Dr. Cui Kun, head of the Chinese medical team, who took on the role of a guide at the event. To ensure patients could continue treatment, Dr. Cui introduced them to the team’s regular “TCM Friday” outpatient service and rotating clinics at local polyclinics, helping them register and book follow-ups on the spot. This move not only addressed concerns about ongoing care but also established a stable, sustainable channel for TCM health services in Barbados. “This is the first time the Chinese medical team has been invited by the Barbados Ministry of Health and Wellness to jointly conduct a community health service,” said Dr. Cui Kun. Building on this successful cooperation, the team and the Ministry have agreed to make such joint pop-up clinics a regular program. Together, they will organize health outreach activities in different communities, offering TCM diagnosis, emergency training, and health education—all tailored to local needs—to safeguard the health of Barbadians with Chinese medical expertise.

Dr. Mou Qiujie, a TCM acupuncture specialist, performs acupuncture on a local patient, providing relief for pain. (Photo/Dr. Cui Kun)

From a single clinic to a routine service, from a silver needle to a bond of friendship, the Eighth Chinese Medical Team in Barbados is living the ethos of medical aid through concrete action. Step by step, treatment by treatment, the profound friendship between the peoples of China and Barbados grows deeper, as the team tells a sincere, multifaceted, and heartwarming story of China through compassion and professionalism.

Doctors explain the principles of Traditional Chinese Medicine to community members during an interactive session. (Photo/Dr. Cui Kun)

The Eighth Chinese Medical Team in Barbados is organized mainly by Chongqing General Hospital, with support from the First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University, Chongqing Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Chongqing Maternal and Child Health Care Hospital, and other institutions. The team consists of nine members, including eight clinical professionals and one chef.