​The Secretary for Food and Health, Professor Sophia Chan, met with the District Health Centre (DHC) Express operators in 11 districts (namely Central and Western District, Wan Chai District, Eastern District, Yau Tsim Mong District, Kowloon City District, Kwun Tong District, North District, Tai Po District, Sai Kung District, Sha Tin District and Islands District) to share the concept on DHC Express and primary healthcare today (July 28).
Professor Chan said, "In a bid to shift the emphasis of the present healthcare system and mindset from treatment-oriented to prevention-focused, the Government is enhancing district-based primary healthcare services in all 18 districts gradually. Among other things, the Government aims to introduce the interim DHC Express for 11 districts during the term of the current Government, in advance of the operation of full-fledged DHCs, with a view to building up a critical mass of district-based primary healthcare services throughout the territory as early as practicable."
"DHC Express will provide prevention-focused primary healthcare services on different levels, including health promotion and education, health risk factors assessment and chronic disease management."
She said, "Apart from serving as a district health resource hub that links different service providers of various aspects of primary healthcare services in the community, DHC Express will also leverage on a private healthcare network in the community to enable members of the public to receive the necessary care and services when needed. DHC Express in the various districts is targeted to commence services in the fourth quarter this year."
At today's meeting, Professor Chan shared with the DHC Express operators about the mission and vision for primary healthcare development, and the plan of formulating blueprint for the sustainable development of primary healthcare services for Hong Kong. She emphasised that the DHC Scheme was an important part of the whole public healthcare system. She also invited the DHC Express operators to promulgate the initiatives of the Government, including to combat of COVID-19 epidemic, Hong Kong Cancer Strategy, as well as Strategy and Action Plan to Prevent and Control Non-Communicable Diseases in Hong Kong. Besides, the DHC Express operators shared their views on primary healthcare development.
The Food and Health Bureau will continue to work with health and social sectors to proactively promote the development of primary healthcare in order to improve the health of all citizens and enhance their quality of life.
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