Extra revenue will be used to support the neediest, government says.
Hong Kong's public healthcare fee changes, effective January 1st, will generate an estimated HK$3 billion annually. These reforms include increased accident and emergency fees for non-urgent cases and expanded medical charge waivers for an additional 1.1 million residents. The government will cover costs exceeding HK$10,000 annually (excluding self-financed items). The goal is to improve the system's sustainability by shifting some costs to those who can afford it and directing revenue towards public healthcare services. The government subsidy will decrease from 97% to 90% within five years.
