An ardent advocate for TCM, Song frequently shares his knowledge on emerging short video platforms and teaches foreign learners the art of pulse diagnosis and acupuncture.

Song's efforts to promote TCM internationally have also borne fruit. In July 2006, a group of 11 TCM students from Switzerland, Germany, and Austria travelled to Jingeng Rehabilitation Hospital for a month-long training session in TCM diagnostics, acupuncture, and rehabilitation. These students, already familiar with TCM theory, were deeply impressed by Song's practical training. Many have since become practitioners, spreading TCM culture worldwide.

A group of students from Switzerland, Germany, and Austria come to Jingeng Rehabilitation Hospital in July 2006 for a month-long training course in TCM diagnostics, acupuncture and rehabilitation. [Photo provided to npc.gov.cn]

Reflecting on this experience, Song said, "Those students said that they would not forget their training, which has laid a solid foundation for their careers. I hope more foreigners will experience TCM and appreciate the charm of Chinese traditional culture."

Song Zhaopu, a traditional Chinese medicine doctor and president of Jingeng Rehabilitation Hospital in Ruzhou, Central China's Henan province, talks with a patient, together with a German student. [Photo provided to npc.gov.cn]

As an NPC deputy, Song is committed to using his expertise to alleviate patients' suffering, reduce medical expenses and promote TCM development. Learning about the financial burden of chronic diseases on economically disadvantaged families, Song submitted suggestions to the second session of the 14th NPC, calling for more support for TCM practice in preventing and treating chronic diseases.

Song Zhaopu, a traditional Chinese medicin doctor, president of Jingeng Rehabilitation Hospital in Ruzhou, Central China's Henan province, and a deputy to the 14th National People's Congress (NPC), attends the second session of the 14th NPC in March this year. [Photo provided to npc.gov.cn]

From improving rural doctors' welfare to ensuring efficient use of medical insurance funds, he has tirelessly advocated for TCM's role in healthcare.

Looking to the next NPC session, Song said he plans to submit suggestions to promote medical education, continuing his mission to advance TCM practice.

Wang Ping and Xu Hang contributed to this story.