Primary Health Care Bureau promotes a co-governance network with a goal of 700,000 participants

The Primary Healthcare Department has launched a Primary Healthcare Co-Governance Network to further integrate disease prevention, screening, diagnosis, management, and referral services. It will no longer be led by individual disease programs. The initial phase will last five years, using a shared payment model, with an estimated participation of about 700,000 people.

The Director of the Medical and Health Department, Lo Chung-mau, officiated at the opening ceremony of the Yau Tsim Mong District Health Centre and the launch of the Primary Healthcare Co-Governance Network, stating, “The Pilot Program for Co-Management of Chronic Diseases” has received enthusiastic responses since its launch at the end of 2023. By the end of January this year, over 200,000 people had participated, reaching the target nearly 10 months ahead of schedule. Based on this figure, it is estimated that about 9,000 cardiovascular disease cases and 11,000 deaths could be prevented, and the plan will be normalized. The newly launched Co-Governance Network will introduce evidence-based, lifelong preventive measures and a framework for regular screening and management of high-risk diseases.

The Co-Governance Network is based on the “Primary Healthcare Blueprint” as its institutional framework. It aims to expand disease coverage, strengthen cross-professional collaboration, and improve community medical support and auxiliary services to integrate and enhance government-provided primary healthcare services. In addition to including screening and management of the “Three Highs” (hypertension, diabetes, hyperlipidemia) and hepatitis B screening and management under the current “Chronic Disease Co-Management Program,” the network will gradually expand to cover more chronic diseases, enabling comprehensive health management across different age and risk groups within the community. The network will also strengthen cross-professional collaboration and improve related auxiliary and support services to optimize its offerings.

The first phase of the Co-Governance Network will last five years, with a target participation of approximately 700,000 people. Eligible citizens only need to register as members of their district health centre/health station and agree to join the Medical and Healthcare Connect (醫健通). Based on individual health status and risks, they can participate in services under the co-governance network. Additionally, the Department of Health will invite patients currently receiving care at Hospital Authority family medicine clinics who are suitable, as well as participants in the General Outpatient Public-Private Partnership Program ending in 2028, to join the services within the network.

The department plans for the Co-Governance Network to include support for family doctors in seasonal influenza vaccination services. It will also explore introducing traditional Chinese medicine services at Lok Yan Station and in elderly health services.