Celebrate the family in Hong Kong - in all its diversity
York Chow says as our notion of what constitutes a family changes, so too must our laws, to ensure that those living outside mainstream norms do not suffer discrimination
Like most people in Hong Kong, I grew up in a traditional family that values love, care and unity, particularly during adversities. I have always looked at the family unit as society's bedrock, upon which one can grow to be his or her best self.
As a doctor, I also recognise the importance of family support during a patient's recovery. I have seen how family members rally to make difficult medical decisions for their loved ones. In that crucial moment, the person making decisions on the patient's behalf should be someone they most trust, love and treasure - in short, the person they consider their family.
I must, therefore, applaud the government and Legislative Council members in not restricting the definition of "family", particularly in emergencies, with the recent passage of the Electronic Health Record Sharing System Ordinance. Aside from creating an electronic system for patients' health information, the ordinance also defines who can be a "substitute decision-maker" for patients unable to decide for themselves, such as if they are in a coma or mentally incapable.
In the original bill, the substitute decision-maker was defined as "immediate family members" related to the patient by blood, marriage, adoption or affinity. However, some legislators argued that a person co-habiting with the patient should also have this right, and the government sensibly agreed. Thus, in the enacted ordinance, a "substitute decision-maker" is more reasonably defined to also include "a person residing with the health-care recipient".
Rather than judging, we must support each other to be the best family members to those we love
This shows both foresight and pragmatism on the part of the government and Legco. Over the years, society has undergone enormous transformation. Many couples choose not to or cannot marry, but are in committed relationships. Being unmarried does not mean that the bond between the partners is any less secure or lasting. By allowing a wider definition of "family members" to include cohabiting couples, our policymakers are wisely adapting to the shifting reality of what it means to be a family.