The government will introduce a bill next year to support these measures.
CEO John Lee in his 2025 Policy Address Hong Kong will take various measures, including strengthening primary health care to address the challenges of an aging society.
Lee said the government will introduce a bill that authorizes the primary health care committee to set citywide standards and develops a multidisciplinary service network.
In addition, the government plans to deepen reforms in the healthcare system by enhancing its sustainability and increasing human resources. It will also encourage health and medical innovation in the Greater Bay area.
The Hospital Authority (HA) will maintain a safety-first approach, reform governance and accountability, and build dedicated teams and upgraded electronic systems to handle applications for exempting medical expenses. The fees and positioning of non-subsidized services will also be reviewed.
In addition, HA will establish a stroke center and an integrated cardiovascular disease center after national certification standards.
Ophthalmic services will be enhanced through professional training, innovative medications and a new center for bedridden cataract surgery.
The Hospital Certification Program will also be expanded to cover a large acute hospital in each public hospital cluster.
