Gov’t adds preventive screening in Chronic Disease Co-Care Pilot Scheme

The expansion will be rolled out in phases.

The Health Bureau has announced the expansion of the Chronic Disease Co-Care Pilot Scheme to provide preventive screening services in General Out-patient Clinics (GOPCs) for underprivileged individuals.

Seven GOPCs will participate in the initial phase, with six other clinics to be included by the end of June. The Primary Health Care Commission will oversee the rollout.

From 28 March, recipients of the ‘Comprehensive Social Security Assistance Scheme’, individuals aged 75 or above receiving the ‘Old Age Living Allowance’, or holders of valid medical fee waiver certificates can visit District Health Centres or DHC Expresses for an initial assessment.

Upon referral, participants will receive preventive screening services at designated GOPCs. The clinics will arrange appointments within a month of referrals and conduct necessary laboratory tests.

Based on health risk assessments, participants will receive a health management plan, education, and counselling services.

Fees for preventive care services will be fully or partially waived for up to one year from the first service date, based on eligibility.

Eligibility will be verified again after the one-year service period.