Prevention is always better than cure for Hongkongers
- A plan to offer subsidies to make it easier to diagnose and treat hypertension and diabetes – prevalent chronic illnesses among Hong Kong’s elderly – is a smart move
It was encouraging to see health authorities take another important step this week to ease the burden on the public healthcare system by shifting from a focus on curative treatment to more emphasis on preventing disease.
Under the Chronic Disease Co-Care Pilot Scheme, the Health Bureau proposes subsidies for middle-aged and elderly Hong Kong residents who take part in screenings for high blood pressure and diabetes at private clinics.
A component of primary healthcare reform, it would mean that people diagnosed with or found to be at risk of developing chronic illnesses can expect lower consultation fees. Doctors signed up for the scheme would receive subsidies for treating patients and buying relevant medicines.
A paper discussed at the Legislative Council proposes screenings for residents aged 45 or above and with no current symptoms of hypertension or diabetes.
Last December, authorities unveiled plans for the biggest reform of the healthcare system since the Hospital Authority was established more than three decades ago.