Govt Urged To Expand Shenzhen Medical Subsidy Scheme

The government was on Tuesday urged to expand a planned pilot scheme that will provide subsidised healthcare in Shenzhen for Hongkongers who live across the border.

From May 10, eligible Hongkongers can get 2,000 yuan to seek follow-up treatment at general out-patient and specialist clinics of the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital.

On an RTHK programme, the Society for Community Organisation’s Tim Pang said he hopes emergency and in-patient services can be covered as well.

He also said he hopes the scheme can be expanded to other hospitals in Guangdong.

“The Greater Bay Area is rather large. I hope the scheme can be gradually expanded to other medical institutions with Hong Kong’s management models or with services comparable to Hong Kong’s levels,” said Pang.

“That way Hong Kong people won’t have to go to the University of Hong Kong-Shenzhen Hospital but can receive medical care near where they live,” he added.

On the same programme, the Federation of Trade Unions’ vice-chairwoman Linda Tsang said she hopes the subsidy for each patient can be increased.

She also noted that only five hospitals in Guangdong have signed up to use Hong Kong-registered drugs and medical devices used in the SAR's public hospitals, saying authorities should try to get more hospitals onboard.