The Hospital Authority announced Friday it will bolster medical resources and expand capacity to prepare for potential increases in patient volumes during the upcoming holiday season.
As respiratory illnesses show signs of escalation, hospital officials are implementing strategic measures to manage anticipated healthcare demands. The authority will activate peak-period protocols starting Saturday, including a 10 to 20 percent increase in hospital staffing and a reduction of non-urgent patient admissions.
Dr. Larry Lee, a chief manager with the Hospital Authority, expressed confidence in the system’s preparedness. “We’ve refined our strategies to maximize bed efficiency and emergency room responsiveness,” Lee told reporters.
Key preparedness initiatives include optimizing bed turnover through specialized command and day centers, designed to expedite patient processing and create space for emergency cases. The authority will also reintroduce a patient-friendly emergency department refund policy, allowing individuals who choose to leave after extended waiting periods to receive a HK$180 fee reimbursement within 24 hours.
The Centre for Health Protection has simultaneously warned of mild increases in COVID-19 and influenza cases, with projections suggesting potential further rises in January. Health officials are strongly recommending vaccination, particularly for high-risk populations.
“Our goal is to maintain healthcare accessibility and quality during what could be a challenging period,” Lee emphasized.
The comprehensive approach reflects lessons learned from previous healthcare challenges, showcasing Hong Kong’s adaptive medical infrastructure.
Patients are advised to monitor their health, consider vaccination, and utilize healthcare resources judiciously during the holiday season.
