15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Hong Kong
Last updated on Feb 04, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Hong Kong is generally considered to be very high, with many of the world's leading medical professionals and facilities located in the city. In comparison to the US, Hong Kong has a much higher doctor-to-patient ratio, meaning that patients are able to receive more personalized care. Emergency services in Hong Kong are also highly efficient, with ambulances responding quickly to calls. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 999 from any phone.
How are healthcare services Hong Kong?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Hong Kong, they replied:
"Hong Kong has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides a wide range of services to its citizens. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is free for all Hong Kong residents. The quality of public healthcare is generally high, with a wide range of medical facilities and services available. Foreign residents are also able to access the public healthcare system, although they may be required to pay a fee. Expats in Hong Kong can use the public healthcare system by registering with a local clinic and paying the applicable fees. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," said one expat living in Hong Kong.
What are medical services in Hong Kong like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Hong Kong, they replied:
"Hong Kong doctors are quite good but they are lacking bedside manners and compassion in most cases," commented one expat who moved to Hongkong.
"Hong Kong has a well-developed healthcare system, providing a wide range of medical services. The public healthcare system is comprehensive and accessible, with a network of public hospitals and clinics offering quality medical care. Private healthcare is also available, with a range of private hospitals and clinics offering a variety of services. The government also provides subsidies for certain medical services, making them more affordable for citizens. In addition, Hong Kong has a number of specialist medical centres offering advanced treatments and services," said one expat.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Hong Kong?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Hong Kong can be expensive. Private healthcare is generally more expensive than public healthcare, and health insurance premiums can be high. The cost of medical treatment can also be high, especially for more complex treatments. Additionally, the cost of medication can be expensive, and many people opt to purchase medication from overseas to save money," said an expat in Hong Kong.
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What are emergency services like in Hong Kong?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Hong Kong wrote:
"Emergency services in Hong Kong are generally reliable and efficient. In the event of an emergency, you can call 999 to request an ambulance. The operator will ask for your location and the nature of the emergency, and will dispatch an ambulance to your location as soon as possible. The ambulance will be staffed with medical personnel who can provide medical assistance and transport you to the nearest hospital," wrote one expat.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Hong Kong is home to a wide variety of medical specialists, with some of the best selections located in the Central and Western Districts. The Central District is home to some of the most renowned hospitals in the city, such as Queen Mary Hospital and Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital, which offer a wide range of specialist services. The Western District is also home to a number of specialist clinics, such as the Hong Kong Adventist Hospital, which provides a comprehensive range of medical services. Other areas in Hong Kong with a good selection of medical specialists include Kowloon, Sha Tin, and the New Territories," said one expat.
Are common prescription medications available in Hong Kong?
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Hong Kong. Most pharmacies in Hong Kong carry a wide range of prescription medications, including antibiotics, anti-inflammatory drugs, and other medications used to treat a variety of conditions. In addition, many pharmacies also offer over-the-counter medications, such as pain relievers, cold and flu remedies, and vitamins," wrote one expat.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Hong Kong?
"Medical facilities and medical care in Hong Kong are of a high standard. The city is home to some of the best hospitals and medical centers in the world, offering a wide range of services and treatments. The medical staff are highly trained and experienced, and the quality of care is excellent. The government also provides a comprehensive public health system, ensuring that all citizens have access to quality healthcare," mentioned one expat in Hong Kong.
As a foreigner living in Hong Kong, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Hong Kong, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Hong Kong is comprehensive and provides a wide range of services, including preventive care, primary care, specialist care, and hospital care. The public healthcare system is funded by the government and is generally of a high quality. The cost of healthcare is also relatively low, making it accessible to all," commented one expat who moved to Hong Kong.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Hong Kong if they have access to public healthcare in Hong Kong. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"The pandemic has had a significant impact on the healthcare system in Hong Kong. The government has implemented a range of measures to ensure the safety of patients and healthcare workers, including the introduction of temperature checks and the mandatory wearing of face masks. The healthcare system has also been stretched to its limits, with hospitals and clinics facing a surge in demand for services. Despite this, the healthcare system has been able to cope with the increased demand, and the government has provided additional resources to ensure that the system is able to meet the needs of the population. Overall, the healthcare system in Hong Kong has been able to respond effectively to the pandemic, and the government has taken steps to ensure that the system is able to continue to provide quality care to its citizens," remarked one expat in Hong Kong.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Hong Kong?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Hong Kong about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"My feeling about giving birth in another country was this: Children are born all over the world on a daily basis. Not all practices are the same, but it is amazing how many children successfully come into this world in every country. I did seek out a hospital that I would hopefully feel comfortable in, but that's no guarantee. I trusted all would go well. I also found a Doctor that I felt comfortable with and trusted," wrote a person living in Hong Kong.
"It is important to research the different types of healthcare available in Hong Kong and to find a doctor or midwife who is experienced in delivering babies in the city. It is also important to familiarise yourself with the local maternity and childcare services, as well as the different types of insurance available to cover the costs of childbirth. Additionally, it is important to ensure that you have a good support network in place, as having a baby can be a stressful and overwhelming experience. Finally, it is important to take time to relax and enjoy the experience of having a baby in Hong Kong," explained one expat living in Hong Kong.
Are healthcare services good in Hong Kong?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Hong Kong. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Hong Kong are generally of a high standard. The public healthcare system is comprehensive and provides a wide range of services, including preventive care, primary care, specialist care, and hospital care. Private healthcare services are also available, and many people opt for private insurance to cover the cost of medical care. The government also provides subsidies for certain medical treatments, such as cancer treatments. In addition, there are a number of charitable organizations that provide free or low-cost healthcare services to those in need," remarked one in Hong Kong.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Hong Kong Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Hong Kong
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Hong Kong
- Best Places to Live in Hong Kong
- Guide to Real Estate in Hong Kong
- Pros & Cons of Living in Hong Kong
- Cost of Living in Hong Kong
- 10 Cultural Faux Pas to Avoid While Living in Hong Kong
- Top Hospitals in Hong Kong by Specialty
- Best Places to See While on a Look-See Trip to Hong Kong (Plus, Itineraries)
- Moving with a Pet to Hong Kong
- 2024 Guide to Living in Hong Kong
- Pros and Cons of Living in Hong Kong 2024