Health Insurance in Hong Kong, Asia

Useful information for expatriates in Afghanistan

Capital City: Hong Kong
Total area: 1,096.63km2
Population: 7,205,000
Money: Currency Converter
Time Zone: List of time zones by country
Calling Code: +852 XXX

Practical Information:

Wikipedia Hong Kong

Health Product:  Travel Insurance and Health Insurance
Health Insurance information and Sanitary Risk: World Health Map
BLOG: Expat Health insurance Information

Here is a brief description of the healthcare system in the country:

·      Hong Kong has a hybrid system with both public and private sectors. The government aims for universal healthcare.

·      Public primary care is provided through clinics, outpatient services and subvented hospitals run by Hospital Authority.

·      Nearly 90% of the population uses public services for basic/low-cost care via means-tested subsidies.

·      Private health insurance plays a small role as supplementary coverage for public co-payments.

·      Private healthcare providers offer higher-income residents and foreigners other options for fee-paying services.

·      Funding comes from general tax revenue, not health insurance contributions or user fees.

·      Healthcare infrastructure is highly developed and on par with OECD nations.

·      Life expectancy is 84 years, one of the highest worldwide, due to advanced public health standards.

·      The system faces challenges of a rapidly ageing population increasing healthcare demands.

Here are some key health considerations for expatriates living in the country:

·      Expats can choose to use the low-cost public system or higher-end private facilities. No residency requirement for public care.

·      Familiarize yourself with the public Hospital Authority's clinics and hospital locations for basic needs.

·      Consider private health insurance as a supplement if using public services frequently. Co-payments may accumulate.

·      Dental care is one area where private is preferable to public - find an English-speaking dentist.

·      Mental health services have room for improvement. Expats may prefer an international practitioner.

·      Bring any crucial/expensive prescription medications rather than rely on formulary drug options.

·      Learn some basic Cantonese medical terms especially for interacting in the community.

·      Monitor health alerts regarding infectious outbreak risks from mainland China.