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Opinion
To cut Hong Kong A&E abuse, higher fees only part of healthcare solution
- Addressing why people go to the accident and emergency department for non-urgent conditions requires a holistic approach, including better primary care and community support for the elderly, and health literacy
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The recent debate over a potential increase in accident and emergency (A&E) charges at public hospitals has reignited the discussion on how to address the misuse of emergency services in Hong Kong. While some say that raising the fees would be a sufficient deterrent, a more comprehensive strategy is required to address the complex factors that drive people to A&E departments for non-urgent issues.
Instead of focusing on fees only, we must adopt a more holistic approach that prioritises primary care services, together with adjustments to A&E charges and enhanced patient education, to address the issues involved and promote a more sustainable healthcare system.
While imposing higher fees can be part of the solution as they would discourage people from seeking immediate care for non-urgent conditions, it is essential to recognise that many turn to A&E departments because they have limited access to primary care services, a lack of understanding of their healthcare options or concerns about affordability. Imposing higher fees alone, without guiding people towards the appropriate care settings, may have a limited impact on changing behaviour.
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