Scottish Universities Strike Alliance with Healthcare Industry in China 

The University of Edinburgh and The University of Dundee are to provide continuing clinical education and training for thousands of nurses, doctors and other health professionals from China’s leading alliance of healthcare companies, following an agreement with the Strategic Alliance for the Medical & Healthcare Industry of China (SAMHIC).

The signing of the agreement in Shanghai (July 29) was witnessed by Scotland’s First Minister, Nicola Sturgeon during a trade mission to China. “We have a world class higher education system paired with excellent medical schools in Scotland and I am delighted that the Universities of Edinburgh and Dundee have been able to partner with SAMHIC.  This new partnership will allow many medical professionals, from both Scotland and China, to develop a first-rate programme of education, training and research,” the First Minister said.

SAMHIC, a group of 20 influential Chinese enterprises, operates more than 2,500 hospitals in mainland China. Members include a major Chinese insurance company, the world’s largest genomics research institute, digital health technology companies and the UK-based International Hospital Group. Supporters include the Chairman of the New Hope Group, Liu Yonghao; real estate investor Feng Lun; the founder of Taikang Insurance, Chen Dongsheng; and the Chairman of the Vanhal Group, Weng Guoliang.

Dr David Jiang, Secretary General of SAMHIC said the goal of the organisation is to deliver the highest international standards of management and patient care. “We are delighted to be working with the University of Edinburgh and the University of Dundee as we need world-class partners to achieve this. Our members are very successful in China and led by well known, highly credible businessmen who are throwing their weight behind the development of our country’s healthcare system.

“The Chinese Government has a five-year roadmap for the reform of the healthcare sector including a 30% increase in hospital beds in state-run hospitals and a twofold increase in privately invested hospitals. The opportunities for upskilling our workforce and providing advanced education are huge.”