'HA Should Waive Drug Delivery Fees For Some Groups'

A patients' rights group has welcomed a new medication delivery service but urged the Hospital Authority to consider reducing the flat delivery charge of HK$65 for low-income families or elderly patients.

The next-day delivery service launches later this month at specialist clinics at two hospitals, initially. Alex Lam, who is chairman of Hong Kong Patients' Voices, told an RTHK programme the policy would reduce waiting times for patients at hospital pharmacies.

"It's a good move," he said. "It will mean patients can go home quickly after their consultations instead of waiting for drugs at a pharmacy. Pharmacies may not be located near the outpatient clinic, so patients may have to walk a long distance to the pharmacy then wait up to an hour for their medicines, which can sometimes be bulky to carry."

On the issue of the delivery fee, Lam acknowledged that the scheme was a trial and said it was fair to include a charge, but added: "I think the Hospital Authority could consider lowering the delivery fee for people from low-income families or for the elderly. They may consider either a discount or waiving the fee for these patients."

Lam said another helpful step would be to offer remote appointments and a delivery service for chronic patients who require repeat prescriptions.

"Hopefully in future they can have a remote consultation and then just have their medicines delivered," he said. "I think the Hospital Authority is considering this service in the long run."