Gu Lanying provides medical services for a villager in Houxi village. [Photo/Tide News]

On Feb 15, the Spring Festival holiday may have been coming to an end, but in a medical clinic of Houxi village, village doctor Gu Lanying was still busy. "Many elderly people have been coming here to get medicine during the Spring Festival, hoping to get the New Year off to a healthy start," said Gu.

Gu Lanying, now 72 years old, originally hails from Guangdong province. She has served as the village doctor in Houxi village, located in Qingyuan county, Lishui, Zhejiang province, for 47 years. Due to its remote location, the lack of medical resources is the common challenge in the village. As a result, Gu provides services all year round, even during Spring Festival.

The clinic, located on the second floor of her house, is home to well-maintained equipment and a consistently ample supply of a variety of commonly used drugs, especially drugs for the elderly.

Gu's commitment extends to making house calls, which has been her most common work for decades. Her deep understanding of the villagers' health conditions, as well as her devoted availability, have earned her the trust and gratitude of the community.

Despite her son's encouragement to retire and enjoy her later years, Gu remains steadfast in her commitment to the villagers. She believes in providing face-to-face medical care and feels responsible for the well-being of her fellow villagers.

Gu's dedication and selflessness have fostered a bond of friendship and family with the villagers. Her son, witnessing her passion, now understands and supports her work. Gu said that she will continue her work as a village doctor for as long as she is able.