Hong Kong may require private hospitals to give price estimates to patients

Private hospitals in Hong Kong may be required to provide price estimates to patients and release information about past fees and charges under the government’s proposals to increase transparency in the sector.

The Health Bureau said on Wednesday that residents needed clarity on charges in the private healthcare system.

“Price transparency is crucial for the public in determining whether to choose private medical services,” the bureau said in a paper submitted to the Legislative Council.

“If it is not handled well, Hong Kong’s medical system will fall into a vicious cycle.”

The bureau said unclear pricing made residents hesitant to use the private sector, which put further pressure on the public system. The consequences could be detrimental to the quality and efficiency of the healthcare system, the bureau added.

Under the proposals presented to the legislature, private healthcare facilities – hospitals, day procedure centres and clinics – would be required to release pricing information on their services in a format specified by authorities.