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Hospital care services on improvement
Hong Kong is probably the only city in the world where taxation is low but medical and health care is heavily subsidised and, in many instances, virtually free, the Chief Secretary, Mrs Anson Chan, said.
Officiating at the opening ceremony of the Hospital Authority Convention 1995 today (Wednesday), Mrs Chan said: "We are one of the few places that provides a free and comprehensive immunisation programme to all children protecting them against major infectious diseases.
"In terms of infant mortality, average life expectancy at birth and the ratio of non- smokers to smokers, the health status of our community is among the best in the region.'
Speaking on the theme of this year's Convention, "Transformation in Hospital Services", Mrs Chan said the hospital care services had made significant improvements in the past few years.
These include the substantial elimination of camp-beds in public hospitals, the provision of enquiry services in all hospitals for visitors, and the introduction of a priority system in emergency services which significantly reduces the waiting time for patients.
The Chief Secretary pointed out that effective and efficient health care delivery could only be achieved through active collaboration by providers, carers and patients.
"In this regard, the Hospital Authority has shaped its corporate mission to strengthen the interface between public and private sectors.
"This will not only improve utilisation of resources and avoid duplication of services, but also enhance the continuum of patient care," she said.
The Chief Secretary said in the light of increased public awareness and escalating medical costs, preventive care should receive greater emphasis.
She said: "Through its front-line contact with patients and their families, and close co-operation with the Department of Health on health education programme, the Hospital Authority will add strength to our initiatives to improve preventive care for our community."
End/Wednesday, January 4,
1995