Lukewarm response from Hong Kong healthcare specialists to expanded voucher scheme for elderly
- Fewer than 100 audiologists, clinical psychologists, dietitians and speech therapists have signed up
- More publicity is needed, as most elderly people don’t know about latest four services added to list, professionals say
A recent Hong Kong government move to let elderly residents use their HK$2,000 (US$255) healthcare vouchers on specialists who can help with hearing, speech, diet and psychological issues has received a lukewarm response.
Fewer than 100 audiologists, clinical psychologists, dietitians and speech therapists have enrolled in the scheme since it was expanded on April 28, and many of the city’s elderly appear unaware of the wider range of services.
The Post learned that the apparent lack of interest among the four professional groups could be attributed to both a perceived low demand for their services among the elderly and the absence of a statutory registration system for these healthcare specialists.
The healthcare voucher scheme, introduced in 2009, provides everyone aged 65 or older with HK$2,000 to pay for primary healthcare services in the private sector. The list of services covered has grown to 14 with the addition of the latest four groups.
As of August 30, only nine clinical psychologists had joined the scheme, along with 25 dietitians, 33 speech therapists and 31 audiologists.
Clinical psychologist Yawen Chan enrolled in the scheme but was not surprised by the response from her professional colleagues.
“Elderly people in general have a lower understanding of clinical psychology, compared with the younger generation, so we do not expect many to seek this service,” she said.
