Editorial | Healthcare reform is necessary but must offer protection for all
The bottom line for Hongkongers is simply this: no one should be denied medical services because of money
Hong Kong is gearing up for major surgery to fix what appears to be an increasingly unsustainable public healthcare system. Chief Executive John Lee Ka-chiu’s policy address last month has mapped out the most ambitious reform blueprint yet.
This includes realigning work across different public medical service providers, strengthening prevention of diseases through primary healthcare and tilting the long-standing imbalance between the public and private sectors. The challenges ahead are daunting.
The authorities should closely engage stakeholders and release more details for public discussion so that the revamp can be implemented smoothly and in a timely manner.
Of particular concern is the plan for public outpatient clinics to focus on serving the disadvantaged and vulnerable, while the more well-off have to turn to the private sector.
The government said those with chronic illnesses or mild diseases such as colds and flu should seek help from community family doctors rather than public hospitals and clinics.
Also on the cards is an enhanced subsidy system for critically ill patients diverted to private hospitals. The authorities also will reform private healthcare services in terms of quality, cost-effectiveness and price transparency.
