Hong Kong boasts a world-class healthcare system. Thanks to its extensive network of clinics, hospitals, and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) clinics across every region and district, as well as its top-class medical facilities and highly skilled staff, Hong Kong was ranked first in Asia in Bloomberg's 2018 Health Care Efficiency Index.
Up to this date, there are 43 public hospitals and 13 private hospitals, and most doctors and nurses in the public hospitals speak English. Accident and Emergency services cost about HK$180 per visit, while general outpatient services are charged at HK$50. Anyone with a Hong Kong Identity Card (HKID) can access these medical services at reduced rates. The ambulance is just a phone call away (dial 999), is free of charge, and arrives within 12 minutes of you placing the call.
For minor ailments or antibiotic prescriptions, numerous private clinics are available, often located in office towers and shopping malls. Many private clinics offer appointments on very short notice, and the consultation fee generally includes medicine.
Most corporate jobs also offer private health insurance through leading international insurance providers. The city's 13 private hospitals offer a wide variety of medical and surgical services, including cardiology, oncology, respiratory medicine, physiotherapy, ear, nose and throat, orthopaedics and traumatology.
Finding the right insurance plan can be challenging, with thousands of products on the market. To simplify this process, the Hong Kong government has initiated the widely adopted Volunteer Health Insurance Scheme (VHIS). To offer VHIS plans, all providers must comply with standardised requirements from the Health Bureau. If you are looking for a way to de-clutter your options, this is a good place to start!
The information provided is for reference only and is subject to periodic updates. For the latest information, please visit the relevant website.