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"These centres will serve the important purpose of developing and fine-tuning protocol and logistics of preventive and promotive services in an out-patient setting," Mrs Fok said.

"The intention is to accumulate practical experience so that future centres will be successfully integrated in our out-patient clinics on a territory-wide basis."

As regards dental services for elderly people, Mrs Fok said special grants were in place to provide financial assistance to CSSA recipients for dental treatments in designated dental clinics and clinics run by non- governmental organisations and non- profit making bodies.

She told the Council that although Hong Kong had a sound healthcare system that cared for all age groups, services to cater to specific groups, that is, the older members of the community, would need to be fined.

"Existing services will be critically evaluated to ensure the most cost-effective use of all existing resources.

"Last but not least, we will motivate the community in different ways to help the individual and his family to adopt healthy lifestyles so that the community, as it grows old together, will do so in good health," Mrs Fok said.

End/Wednesday, January 25, 1995

Motion debate on health care plan for the elderly

Following is a speech by the Secretary for Health and Welfare, Mrs Katherine Fok, in the Legislative Council motion debate on health care plan for the elderly today (Wednesday)

Mr President,

First of all, I must thank the Hon Li Wah-ming, the Hon Tam Yiu-chung, and other Members who have spoken during the debate for their diverse views and stimulating ideas on this very important subject of healthcare for the elderly.

P