2025 marks the 11th anniversary of Dr. Smile Medical Group, and this milestone comes with a significant leap forward—the launch of America’s first CHIVA Center. This initiative signifies a strategic breakthrough in localizing the CHIVA method in the U.S. and serves as a cornerstone for the group’s global expansion strategy. In an exclusive interview with Venous Update, founder Dr. Qiang Zhang shared insights on team-building, management systems, and the global vision for CHIVA.
Alex: Dr. Zhang, the opening of the first CHIVA Center in the U.S. is attracting considerable attention. What are some key milestones you’ve achieved so far?
Dr. Zhang: Thank you for your continued interest in Dr. Smile Medical Group. A pivotal moment recently occurred when our longtime friend and respected American vein specialist, Professor Steven Elias, visited our U.S. headquarters. Together, we explored potential collaboration models and future directions. It’s not just about resources or platforms; it’s about assembling a team of visionary partners who share a common mission. This meeting marked our shift from theoretical collaboration to practical partnership—a defining moment for us.
Alex: Could you share the consensus reached during Professor Elias’s visit?
Dr. Zhang: CHIVA’s integration into American clinical guidelines is a critical milestone, indicating growing acceptance of the concept among U.S. vascular specialists. Both Professor Elias and I agree this is just the beginning. Translating CHIVA from theory to patient care requires dedicated professionals committed to practical application. Thus, the New York CHIVA Center was conceived to systematically educate doctors and provide patients with innovative treatment options. Our collaboration will focus on training local vascular surgeons, effectively promoting CHIVA’s practice and standards throughout the medical community.
Alex: What’s the latest on Dr. Smile Medical Group’s expansion into the U.S.?
Dr. Zhang: Our U.S. operations, under Global CHIVA Management, are entering their final preparation stages. Having completed our business registration in New York and secured our Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) National Provider Identifier (NPI), we officially launched our Management Service Organization (MSO), Dr. Smile Medical Group, to manage the operational aspects of CHIVA centers effectively. This MSO is not merely about administration—it’s integral in adapting and promoting the CHIVA brand in America. Our upcoming New York CHIVA Center will also serve as a global training hub for doctors, offering both online courses and in-person workshops.
Alex: Is building a local CHIVA medical team currently your most significant challenge?
Dr. Zhang: Absolutely. It’s our top priority and the most exciting challenge. We aim to build a team of passionate physicians who deeply align with CHIVA’s philosophy. Recently, I visited the Vascular Care Group in Connecticut, where engaging discussions underscored the resonance of CHIVA’s principles—vein preservation and flow restoration—among U.S. practitioners. We’re actively fostering relationships with more local vascular experts, marking the start of sustained development for CHIVA in America.
Alex: CHIVA already has a strong foundation in Europe and China. Does bringing it to the U.S. have a different significance?
Dr. Zhang: CHIVA, initially developed by Professor Claude Franceschi, matured in Europe and was extensively refined through years of implementation and standardization in China. We’ve also successfully introduced CHIVA in Africa. Launching in the U.S. isn’t starting from scratch—it’s leveraging our accumulated experience in new and impactful ways. New York, being a global medical hub, will significantly contribute to CHIVA’s standardization and worldwide adoption.
Alex: Looking long-term, what are your aspirations for the New York CHIVA Center?
Dr. Zhang: Our goal is preparation for the future. The New York Center represents not only CHIVA’s introduction to North America but also a crucial component of our global strategy. In partnership with internationally recognized medical certification organization Inteleos, we initiated a global CHIVA training and certification program, inviting experts and practitioners worldwide to join. Our vision is for the New York Center to become a global nexus, driving greater understanding, broader adoption, and higher standards for CHIVA treatment internationally.
Alex: Thank you very much for your insights, Dr. Zhang. Best of luck with your New York endeavors.
Dr. Zhang: Thank you, and we greatly appreciate everyone’s ongoing support for Dr. Smile Medical Group. We look forward to building lasting partnerships to shape the future of varicose vein treatment worldwide.