Private clinics, beauty parlours start securing licences under tougher Hong Kong rules
Dr Darwin Mak says licensing regime is introduced in response to a change in the way clinics operate and mainly targets those running as chains
Thousands of private clinics in Hong Kong can start applying for a new operating licence or a letter of exemption from Monday under a tightened regulatory regime that also targets beauty parlours providing injections to customers.
Doctors have generally expressed support for the new rules as a necessary “body check”, but anticipate a complex undertaking with documentation and potential struggles with the online application.
Dr Darwin Mak Wai-lai, head of the Department of Health’s Office for Regulation of Private Healthcare Facilities, said the licensing regime was introduced in response to a change in the way clinics operated and mainly targeted those running as chains.
Beauty parlours providing injections to customers will also need to get a licence.
“In the past, clinics were operated by doctors who ensured all rules were met, with the Medical Council taking action against non-compliance,” he said.
“Now, some clinics are no longer run by healthcare professionals, and they lack basic medical knowledge, while the doctors they hire have no control over the clinic’s management. We hope to regulate this kind of clinic to enhance patient safety.”