Hong Kong’s Expansion of Elderly Healthcare Voucher Scheme Raises Concerns

HONG KONG: The Hong Kong Dental Association has expressed apprehension regarding the expansion of an elderly healthcare voucher scheme to more hospitals and dental clinics in the Greater Bay Area, citing potential economic repercussions. 

Spencer Chan Chiu-yee, President of the Dental Association, highlights the significant economic damage that could result if all elderly residents in mainland China opt to use dental services across the border. He stated, “The local economy has been recovering slowly… some HK$100 million [US$12.8 million], orup to HK$200 million, will be snatched from the local economic system.”

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Government Initiative

The government’s plan to extend the usage of the elderly healthcare voucher scheme to additional hospitals and dental clinics in mainland cities aims to provide older residents with more affordable healthcare options. However, concerns have been raised about the potential negative impact on local businesses and the economy.

The scheme’s expansion may lead to increased visits to mainland dentists, affecting local private dental clinics. Some clinics have already experienced a decline in business following the reopening of the city’s border with Shenzhen. 

However, officials assure that local dentists will remain competitive due to the quality of service they offer. Spencer Chan Chiu-yee also noted, “The scheme’s expansion would encourage residents to visit dentists on the mainland,” reflecting concerns within the industry.

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Quality of Service

While some Hong Kong residents have found dental services on the mainland to be more affordable and of higher quality, others express concerns about the accessibility and affordability of dental care in Hong Kong. 

The regulation and operation costs in Hong Kong contribute to the high charges at private clinics. A resident surnamed Wong highlighted the issue, stating, “It cost more than HK$700 for a dental X-ray and doctor fees without an actual check-up in a Hong Kong clinic. But on the mainland she paid less than HK$200 for an X-ray, dental check and scaling services, calling the quality of service ‘much better’.”

The government intends to offer alternatives to elderly residents through the expansion of the voucher scheme. Officials believe that local dentists will adapt to market changes by enhancing service quality and possibly adjusting charges. However, the impact on dentists operating near the border remains a topic of discussion.

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Patient groups emphasize the importance of considering factors such as service quality, hygiene, and affordability when choosing dental services. The expansion of the scheme provides another option for patients, with some expressing interest in visiting mainland dentists for lower-priced services.

Industry Response

Dental centres in the Greater Bay Area have reported increased inquiries from Hong Kong residents following the government’s announcement. While the voucher scheme offers an additional payment option, its impact on patient choices and the overall dental industry landscape remains to be seen.

As the government moves forward with its plan to expand the healthcare voucher scheme, stakeholders continue to assess its potential impact on local businesses, residents, and the broader economy.

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