HK to strengthen primary healthcare, deepen system reforms

The Government will introduce a bill next year to support these measures.

Chief Executive John Lee said in his 2025 Policy Address that Hong Kong will implement various measures, including strengthening primary healthcare, to address the challenges of an ageing society.

The Government will introduce a bill for the empowerment of the Primary Healthcare Commission, set citywide standards, and develop multidisciplinary service networks, according to Lee.

Moreover, the Government plans to deepen healthcare system reform by enhancing its sustainability and increasing manpower. It will also encourage collaboration within the Greater Bay Area for health and medical innovation.

The Hospital Authority (HA) will maintain a safety-first approach, reform governance and accountability, and establish dedicated teams and upgraded electronic systems to process applications for medical fee waivers. Charges and positioning of non-subsidised services will also be reviewed.

In addition, the HA will establish Stroke Centres and Integrated Cardiovascular Disease Centres following national accreditation standards.

Ophthalmic services will be enhanced through professional training, innovative medications, and a new ambulatory cataract surgery centre.

The “Hospital Accreditation Programme” will also be extended to cover a major acute hospital in each public hospital cluster.