Hong Kong targets 90 per cent public healthcare subsidy level within five years

Hong Kong Health Secretary Lo Chung-mau has announced plans to reduce the public healthcare subsidy level to 90 per cent within the next five years. The reform aims to transition toward a model based on the ability to pay, ensuring the system remains sustainable amidst medical advancements and an ageing population.

Currently, subsidies cover approximately 95 per cent of costs, down from a previous 97.6 per cent. Under the new fee structure introduced on January 1, user fees for non-urgent services have increased; for example, less urgent accident and emergency department visits now cost HK$400, up from a range of HK$50 to HK$150.

To protect vulnerable populations, the government has significantly expanded full fee waivers. The number of people receiving these waivers has risen from approximately 14,000 to 280,000, representing a 20-fold increase. Additionally, the number of people eligible for subsidised or free healthcare is expected to grow from 300,000 to 1.4 million following the relaxation of income and asset limits.