Health Bureau says if 200,000 people join scheme, 9,000 cardiovascular diseases and 11,000 deaths could be prevented, leading to medical cost savings
An ongoing pilot scheme for chronic disease screening could help save HK$2.7 billion (US$344 million) in medical expenses if 200,000 people join, Hong Kong authorities have said, with hepatitis B set to be included later.
The Health Bureau said on Tuesday that the project would turn into a co-care “platform” and cover more diseases after the end of the three-year pilot arrangement. The Chronic Disease Co-Care Pilot Scheme was launched in November 2023.
According to a paper submitted by the bureau to the Legislative Council, nearly 60 per cent of about 131,200 participants had undergone screening for diabetes, high blood pressure or high blood lipids.
About 31,100, or 40 per cent, were diagnosed and referred for medical follow-up.
