No budget cut for healthcare: Chief Executive

Reviewing charges for public health services will not involve cutting back on expenditure.

The government's review of charges for public health services will not involve cutting back on expenditure or compromising healthcare, Chief Executive John Lee said.

Responding to questions regarding public hospitals and medical services, Lee stressed that the Health Bureau was instructed to observe three principles as it reviews relevant fees.

“First, it is not an expenditure-cutting exercise. We shall spend no less money to readjust the spending distribution for efficiency and effectiveness,” Lee said.

Moreover, Lee said the government will prioritise the most in need and will reduce resource wastage.

He added that he has urged the bureau to finalise its review, intending to announce details before the end of March.