More than 140 private doctors in Hong Kong have signed up to offer free basic healthcare for survivors of last week’s deadly blaze that tore through seven of eight blocks in a housing complex in Tai Po.
The government said on Thursday that the scheme spanned doctors across 170 locations, including four private hospitals. The policy allows victims to have three consultations, plus medication, free of charge between now and February 28 next year.
The scheme will be coordinated by project managers stationed at the government’s district health centres. Those in need can seek help by visiting the facilities in person or by phoning in.
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Available services include prescription refills based on medical history, as well as follow-ups for trauma, respiratory illnesses and stress or anxiety resulting from the tragedy.
The Hospital Authority earlier announced that it would provide outpatient services at family medicine clinics for free to affected residents. Such facilities handled more than 300 visits by victims of the blaze, according to the government.
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Medical stations at different shelters set up by the government’s Primary Healthcare Commission will operate until the shelters close and have already provided medical and psychological support services for more than 2,000 visitations.