The push for greater clarity in healthcare costs has gained momentum, as the Council has outlined several strategic measures to improve price transparency. Recognizing the need for better-informed decision-making among citizens, the Council advocates for the introduction of a user-friendly search tool that will make pricing information more accessible. This initiative aims to equip patients with comprehensive details about medical expenses before they seek treatment. Additionally, the Council has called for the government to develop guidelines for private hospitals and day procedure centers, ensuring that price lists are presented in a clear and understandable manner. By standardizing these formats, patients can more easily compare costs across different facilities.

Achieving balance in the allocation of healthcare resources is another critical area of focus. The Health Bureau acknowledges the disparity between public and private sectors, where the public system shoulders 90% of inpatient and specialist care despite having only half of the city’s medical workforce. To address this issue, enhancing price transparency in the private sector is seen as a pivotal step. The Council recommends that private hospitals and day procedure centers design medical packages tailored to specific treatments, ensuring consistency between initial estimates and final bills. Furthermore, requiring clear and written budget estimates will provide patients with greater confidence in their financial planning for medical services. The Council also emphasizes the importance of strengthening regulatory frameworks and complaint handling mechanisms related to pricing, along with promoting consumer education through various channels.

These recommendations underscore the commitment to maintaining Hong Kong’s position as a global leader in healthcare standards. By improving price transparency, the healthcare system can better serve its citizens, fostering trust and enabling more informed choices. Ultimately, these efforts aim to create a more equitable and efficient healthcare environment, where both public and private sectors work harmoniously to deliver high-quality care while ensuring affordability and accessibility for all residents.