In a recent interview, Wu Lingyan, a cadre from the Zhejiang University School of Medicine’s Shao Yifu Hospital supporting Xinjiang, shared her unwavering dedication to improving health services in the region. Recognized as a “National Model Individual for Ethnic Unity and Progress,” she highlighted her commitment to enhancing the health sector and promoting the well-being of all ethnic groups.
Hailing from Tiantai County in Zhejiang Province, Wu is a graduate of what is now known as Zhejiang University School of Medicine and has been working in health administration since August 1996. Her journey to Xinjiang started over seven years ago when she was selected to join the ninth group of aid workers in Aral City in February 2017.
Reflecting on her early days in the region, Wu remembers her first visit to a local resident named Niya Zi in May 2017. Initially, she encountered communication challenges and differing cultural practices, making it difficult to connect. However, after a few visits and learning some basic Uyghur phrases, she began to forge a bond with the locals. Their warmth became evident as they would always ask, “When will you come back?” as she left.
Niya Zi shared his gratitude, saying, “During my family’s toughest times, it was Wu Lingyan who helped me.” He explained how she regularly brought him medications for his asthma and heart issues. On one memorable occasion, after observing his worsening back pain at a free clinic, Wu encouraged him to seek hospital treatment, accompanied him the following day, and even covered his medication costs out of her own pocket. Their emotional farewell moved Niya Zi to tears.
This deepening connection led Wu to extend her stay in the region for an additional three years, participating in the tenth batch of aid work until April 2023 when she transitioned to her role at Shao Yifu Hospital. In her new position, she took on the role of deputy leader for the eleventh phase of medical assistance in Xinjiang, continuing her efforts to improve local healthcare services.
Wu has set ambitious goals for her current assignment that include bolstering primary healthcare capabilities, establishing a tiered medical service system, and enhancing healthcare access for local residents. She has played an instrumental role in mobilizing significant support from Zhejiang Province and affiliated hospitals, managing to secure nearly 25 million yuan in aid funds.
Her initiatives are inspired by the effective management and digital reform practices of medical institutions in Zhejiang. Wu has implemented a patient preparation center, upgraded outpatient services, and established a telemedicine platform, leading to notable improvements in patient experiences. As a result, waiting times for appointments have decreased by 60%, patient satisfaction has increased from 88.6% to 94.5%, and preoperative waiting time has been reduced from 56 hours to 34 hours.
Beyond her professional duties, Wu actively engages with local residents to better understand their needs, launching various charitable efforts. She has raised over 200,000 yuan for sewing equipment to stimulate local industry, donated more than 20,000 pieces of clothing and 10,000 books, and coordinated support for 51 underprivileged students.
After nearly eight years of service, Wu has become a cherished figure in the community, affectionately referred to as a warm “pomegranate flower” and a dependable “sister.” Through her experiences, she has come to understand that genuinely supporting Xinjiang requires a deep affection for the region and its people, as true ethnic unity can only be fostered through heartfelt efforts.
