Purpose To promote the systematic development, interests, practice, research and clinical applications of health psychology in general hospitals in Hong Kong and the mainland of China.Data sources The targets and aims of therapeutic work with patients in pain, cancer patients, child and adolescent patients, patients with chronic illnesses, the elderly, and patients requiring organ transplantation are highlighted. Study selection The psychological interventions described are experiences derived from routine clinical services carried out in the Clinical Health Psychology Unit where the authors are affiliated, and can be seen as an example of a more comprehensive psychological intervention program for physically ill patients in Hong Kong.Results Psychological interventions have intrinsic values in reducing patients' distress and sufferings. The services are also an integral part of modern day comprehensive patient care with positive effects on treatment effectiveness and eventual illness outcome.Conclusions Physical illnesses affect a person physically as well as psychologically. Psychological care in general hospitals is cost effective and beneficial in reducing undue psychological complications precipitated by physical afflictions as well as in promoting better overall outcomes.