RAHK attended the consultation meeting for the “2023 Policy Address”, where recommendations were given to the Chief Executive on the new policy address. On August 8, 2023, General Secretary William Chan Hei Lung participated in the “Build a Caring and Inclusive Society” segment and provided suggestions on “Promoting Community Accessibility” and “Enhancing Primary Healthcare”. Subsequently, detailed policy recommendations will be submitted to the government, and member feedback is encouraged.

Regarding “Promoting Community Accessibility”, we believe that with the aging population, mere accessibility falls short of current needs. Embracing the principles of “universal design” is more fitting, promoting equality, inclusivity, and fostering social integration. As the National “Law of Barrier-Free Environment Construction” will be officially implemented in September, advocating for the extensive application of “universal design”, we hope the SAR government will align with the national direction, vigorously promoting its application in Design Manual, urban development strategies, community planning, transportation network facilities, housing designs, and information technology.

In terms of “Promoting Primary Healthcare”, we acknowledge the government’s efforts in advancing primary healthcare and health development. However, we believe that the current performance of District Health Centres (DHCs) and DHC Expresses varies significantly, with unclear functions and positioning, failing to achieve deep community penetration. We have organised various exchange activities where many seniors, persons with disabilities, and patients are unaware of what primary healthcare entails and where these DHCs and DHC Expresses are located. We believe that grassroots patient groups and self-help organisations (SHOs) rooted in the community can play a significant role. The government should engage, connect, and support these organisations. While these SHOs may not be large in scale, they are most effective in fostering shared thoughts and establishing close and trusting relationships with service users. We propose the establishment of a “Primary Healthcare Development Funding Program” for patient groups and SHOs to plan projects, believing this will contribute to promoting the development of primary healthcare and health.