- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Hong Kong Guide (PDF)
Healthcare in Hong Kong is world-class. Both public and private hospitals are equipped with the latest medical technology operated by highly trained medical staff, many of whom speak good English.
However, the region also carries some of the world’s highest healthcare costs – so expats should ensure that they have adequate insurance coverage.
Public healthcare in Hong Kong
Generally, the standard found in public hospitals is high, but service levels can be lacking and efficiency can suffer. Most expats therefore opt for private healthcare.
Private healthcare in Hong Kong
Hong Kong has around a dozen private hospitals with international accreditation. Private healthcare services are popular with expats because they come with the benefits of shorter waiting times, privacy and other comforts.
Fees range from slightly higher than in the public sector to extremely pricey if one decides to make use of luxury services. Either way, expats should organise some form of health insurance to cover costs.
Health insurance in Hong Kong
Anyone with a Hong Kong Identity Card is entitled to subsidised medical services, but foreigners without permanent residency must shoulder costs that are similar to fees incurred by private entities as services are charged at market rates.
Health coverage is often included in employment contracts, but expats who don't have such perks can choose from a wide variety of service providers offering various programmes and packages. We do recommend negotiating with employers for healthcare subsidies, though.
Healthcare schemes vary widely, so finding out what is included in an employer-sponsored scheme is important and, for those securing a plan themselves, we recommend comparing quotes before settling on a service provider.
Private hospitals in Hong Kong
Canossa Hospital
Website: www.canossahospital.org.hk
Address: 1 Old Peak Road, Hong Kong
Matilda International Hospital
Website: www.matilda.org
Address: 41 Mount Kellett Road, The Peak, Hong Kong
Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital
Website: www.hksh-hospital.com
Address: 2 Village Road, Happy Valley, Hong Kong
Pharmacies in Hong Kong
There are plenty of well-stocked pharmacies in Hong Kong. Most are open seven days a week, with some operating 24/7.
Health hazards in Hong Kong
Air pollution in Hong Kong is arguably the region's biggest health concern and, despite the government's best efforts, continues to fall short of international benchmarks. As a result, expats with asthma and chronic respiratory diseases often have aggravated symptoms. Children, the elderly, and those with vulnerable immune systems are most commonly affected, while even healthy foreigners may suffer from nose, throat and chest irritation. That said, most healthy people exposed to air pollution for a short time experience no lasting negative effects.
Emergency services in Hong Kong
Further reading
►Education and Schools in Hong Kong is a must-read for expat parents
Expat Interviews
"Healthcare in Hong Kong is excellent; the public system is well run and very cheap. There are also a number of private hospitals staffed by foreign doctors who are also world class." Read more of American expat Leslie's experience in her interview about life in Hong Kong.
"The quality of healthcare in Hong Kong is one of the best in the world. We have experienced outpatient, surgery and emergency care – all of which have been first class." British expat Alison talks about healthcare and more in her interview about living in Hong Kong.
Are you an expat living in Hong Kong?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Hong Kong. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
If you’re thinking about taking out private health insurance, our trusted partner Cigna Global is very aware of all the difficulties that expats can face when it comes to healthcare in a new location, so they have created a range of international health insurance plans specifically designed for expats, which you can tailor exactly to the needs and ensure access to quality care for you and your family.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.