Hospital Authority records drop in patients after increase in A&E fees
發佈日期: 2026-01-02 23:42
TVB News
The Hospital Authority recorded a drop in the number of patients seeking treatment at accident and emergency departments in the city's public hospitals yesterday, after A&E fees were increased at the start of 2026.
But the waiting time remains relatively unchanged.
The Hospital Authority said around 3,800 patients sought A&E treatment at public hospitals on New Year's Day, a lower figure than that of previous years, with most patients not being in serious condition.
Beginning this year, non-critical patients seeking treatment at public hospitals' accident and emergency departments have to pay a 400 dollar fee, up from 180 dollars.
However, the measure did not result in any noticeable changes in the waiting time for accident and emergency services.
HA Chief Manager Larry Lee said the waiting time currently ranges from 70 to 80 minutes, but stressed that it is too early to determine the impact of the fee increase on A&E patient figures.
Meanwhile, the HA has loosened its medical fee waiver application requirements at the start of this year, having received over 50,000 applications and inquiries as of now.
The HA stressed they will remain flexible when dealing with patients.
