The General Out-patient Clinics (“GOPCs”) of the Hospital Authority (“HA”) are the primary points of care for vulnerable groups in the community. Since the start of the fifth wave of the COVID-19 pandemic, over 30 GOPCs have been converted to designated COVID-19 clinics or suspended services, resulting in a shortage of affordable consultation services.  While fighting the pandemic, it is equally important that the non-COVID-19 medical needs of the needy should continue to be provided for.

The Jockey Club Affordable Outpatient Services Subsidy Scheme (“the Scheme”), a collaboration between The Hong Kong Jockey Club Charities Trust (the “Trust”), NGOs and non-profit-making/private clinics, aims to provide affordable outpatient services to eligible non-COVID-19 patients.  The Scheme will last for three months, with approximately 33,000 eligible patients in 10 districts benefiting.
The Scheme primarily serves patients with episodic medical needs.  Eligible persons can receive medical consultation with basic medication for three days at a fee of $50. The Trust will provide a subsidy of $250 and the rest of the cost will be borne by the clinics.  If it is medically necessary to prescribe medication outside the subsidy scope (e.g. medication for more than three days or special drugs), the doctor will discuss with the patient and see his prior agreement.