70.
(iv) Squatters
have
been
Our ambitious housing programmes should result in a steady reduction in the numbers who live in unsatisfactory
temporary accommodation. Over 34,000 families
rehoused from squatter huts during the last four
four years. The latest census survey indicates that some 100,000 families still
live in temporary huts. Our plans envisage that about half of
these families will be rehoused over the next five years.
During the same period, a new programme to improve safety,
environmental conditions
sanitation and
in
squatter areas
should benefit most of the remaining families.
(c) Medical Services
(i)
Preventive health services
71.
pressures
Despite the
on our medical services, the
general health of the community, as reflected in the major health indices, is very satisfactory, but we continue to seek
improvements. Our maternal and child health service will take a significant step forward later this year with the expansion of the neo-natal screening service. The importance of health education is also recognised, and plans are in hand to expand
the Central Health Education Unit of
of the Medical and Health
Department.
72.
Good
(ii)
Hospital and clinic development
of
progress has been made in the building hospitals and clinics. An extension of Pok Oi Hospital later this year will provide an additional 113 beds to meet district
needs. Completion of the Red Cross Blood Transfusion Centre also towards the end of this year will provide Hong Kong with
a more modern blood transfusion service, and with facilities
for pathological research. Among the projects to be completed
next year are the 150-bed MacLehose Medical Rehabilitation
Centre, an extension of the Yan Chai Hospital, and six new
clinics.
24
/73. Despite