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Sunday, March 11, 1973
"Processing of cases will inevitably take time, especially where
medical examinations of the disabled are required. But the applicants will
not lose any money on this account as payments will be backdated to April ↑
or the date of application, whichever is the later," he added.
The severe disability allowance will be $110 per month, with the
qualifying conditions limited to the claimant's having lived in Hong Kong for at
least one year immediately before applying, and not being in residential care,
such as a hospital or nursing home. There is no age limit.
A severely disabled person is defined as a resident severely physically
injured or blind, or suffering from a severe physically or mentally disabling
condition, or who requires constant attendance.
The Medical and Health Department will be responsible for certifying
that an applicant is severely disabled.
The infirmity allowance of $55 per month will go to any resident of
75 years or over with the qualifying conditions limited to the claimant having
lived in Hong Kong for at least five years immediately before applying and not
being in residential care at a hospital or home for the aged.
Both allowances will be paid irrespective of whether applicants are
already receiving public assistance.
Applications may be made by the disabled or the infirm themselves or
by a third party, if they are unable to do so.
In the case of a disabled child, the application should normally be
made on his behalf by his mother or, if this is not possible, by his father
or guardian,
Recipients of the allowances will receive a book of vouchers for
cashing each month one at a time at the nearest post or treasury office. The
books will be renewable every six months, provided there is no change in the
claimant's circumstances.
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