Even as increasing number of Hong Kong residents seek healthcare services on the Chinese mainland, the information gaps and the high costs due to the lack of insurance coverage continue to be major deterrents according to a new study published by the University of Hong Kong (HKU).
The study conducted by an interdisciplinary research team led by HKU sheds light on the critical role of cross-border healthcare in enhancing the wellbeing and mobility of Hong Kong residents within the Guangdong–Hong Kong–Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA)
According to a media release by HKU, the study was led by HKU professor Shenjing He and surveyed 3,500 Hong Kong residents living in Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Guangzhou. As part of the study in-depth interviews with 140 Hong Kong residents, 40 healthcare professionals, and 20 government officials from Hong Kong and mainland China were conducted. Also, nine focus group discussions were organised.
The study findings reveal divergent concerns between users and non-users. Not being covered by mainland medical insurance is an important reason for concerns about healthcare costs.
The survey results show that among respondents who had used mainland healthcare services, only 8% had purchased the Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance, and 5% had purchased the Urban-Rural Resident Basic Medical Insurance.
The study has also recommended addressing cost concerns through expanded insurance coverage and subsidies and to leverage underutilised capacity in mainland hospitals to reduce waiting times for Hong Kong residents. Users value shorter waiting times but raise affordability and quality concerns.
To tackle cost concerns, the HKU research team have called for a wider uptake of the mainland’s social insurances and cross-boundary commercial packages, especially those providing on-site settlement, among Hong Kong residents. It has also said that presently only a few Hong Kong residents have taken out mainland medical insurance, which should be stepped up. Non-users of the mainland healthcare services worry about unfamiliar procedures and costs.
GBA has diverse service models but disparities in capacity and competitiveness persist. The survey revealed that cross-border healthcare policies lack coordination, transparency, and professional management.
The study has outlined both short-term priorities and a long-term policy framework to address the various challenges. As a short-term policy priority, the study has suggested establishing a cross-border healthcare information platform to improve transparency and accessibility.