Misuse of Accident and Emergency Services in Hong Kong Public Hospitals

Abstract

This chapter explores the misuse of accident and emergency (A&E) services in Hong Kong. The main reasons for people to misuse A&E services include weaknesses of alternative services, low public awareness, and financial considerations. The consequences of the misuse bring challenges to the healthcare system in terms of service quality and patient experience, as well as waste of resources and healthcare professionals. The government is recommended to adopt measures to reduce the burden and risk of misuse of the A&E services. A more comprehensive primary healthcare system to meet the needs of citizens should be established, and people should be empowered to use the healthcare system more efficiently through public education, as well as narrowing the charge gap between A&E services and private primary healthcare to encourage people to visit private healthcare providers.