Regarding the reporter’s question: “The trend of seeking medical treatment northbound (to mainland China) is becoming increasingly popular. How do you view this trend, and what suggestions do you have for the public?” Below is my perspective on this trend. I believe it is not only driven by economic factors but also by social integration and policy changes. While northbound medical treatment offers convenience and savings, potential risks must be addressed. The following elaborates on five key aspects, supported by relevant literature and reports.
1. The huge price gap in cancer drugs between Hong Kong and mainland China makes northbound treatment inevitable for patients
Hong Kong’s healthcare system is advanced, but exorbitant drug prices often deter patients, especially for cancer treatments. According to reports, a lung cancer drug costs over HK$40,000 per cycle in Hong Kong but less than one-third that amount in Shenzhen, creating a massive disparity that directly drives patients to seek cross-border care. Another analysis notes that overall cancer treatment costs in mainland China can be less than one-fifth of those in Hong Kong, with significantly shorter waiting times, making northbound options a “must” for many chronic illness sufferers. Moreover, mainland pharmaceutical companies are actively lowering prices to capture the Hong Kong market, further amplifying this trend.From a public perspective, I suggest patients compare multiple options beforehand and consult professionals to assess cost-effectiveness, avoiding blind decisions.
2. Objectively, Hong Kong’s entire lifestyle circle is shifting north, with returns to Shenzhen approaching the convenience of the old Central district
Hong Kong residents’ daily lives are increasingly tilting toward Shenzhen, extending beyond healthcare to overall lifestyle integration. In recent years, the “northbound” trend for shopping, dining, and entertainment has surged, with estimates showing Hong Kongers’ spending in Shenzhen nearing the scale of local catering industries, reflecting accelerated cross-border integration. For instance, Shenzhen’s lower costs and improved transport make “returning to Shenzhen feel as convenient as the old Central,” especially with high-speed rail and border upgrades enabling 51.4% same-day returns. This shift is supported by policies like the Greater Bay Area plan and driven by Hong Kong’s high living costs. For the public, this is positive regional fusion, but it impacts local economies; I recommend the government enhance cross-border facilities while encouraging local businesses to innovate and retain customers.
3. Government medical vouchers and active participation from the insurance industry are the biggest boosters fueling the enthusiasm for cross-border medical trends
The Hong Kong government has actively promoted cross-border policies in recent years, such as extending the Elderly Health Care Voucher Scheme to designated hospitals in Zhuhai, allowing seniors aged 65+ to use vouchers for outpatient services on the mainland, directly lowering barriers. For example, starting June 2025, 16 departments at Zhongshan University Affiliated Fifth Hospital in Zhuhai are included, covering common outpatient services. Meanwhile, the insurance sector has followed suit with policies covering mainland treatments, further stimulating demand. These measures alleviate pressure on Hong Kong’s public system (e.g., long waits) and align with the national “Healthy China” strategy. I advise the public to leverage these benefits but review policy details to avoid unexpected denials.
4. The government needs to consider how to monitor overseas medical advertising, as it creates unfairness for local doctors and dentists adhering to professional ethics
Hong Kong strictly regulates local medical advertising under the Undesirable Medical Advertisements Ordinance, prohibiting false claims with fines up to HK$50,000 and six months’ imprisonment.
However, cross-border ads (e.g., mainland hospitals promoting on Hong Kong platforms) lack effective oversight, disadvantaging local practitioners who must follow rigorous professional codes (like the Medical Council’s publicity rules), while competitors can advertise low prices more freely. Mainland China also has rules to identify “disguised medical ads,” but cross-border enforcement is challenging. This distorts the market and misleads the public. I urge the government to strengthen cross-border ad monitoring, such as joint reviews with the mainland, to ensure fair competition.
5. Citizens must fully consider and recognize the risks of cross-district medical treatment; public education on this is urgently needed
While northbound treatment is convenient, risks cannot be ignored, including differences in medical standards (e.g., hospital management and drug protocols), language barriers, and follow-up challenges.Thus, public education is crucial; I suggest the government launch multilingual campaigns with risk assessment tools and hotlines to empower informed decisions.
In summary, northbound medical treatment is an irreversible trend, but it requires balancing convenience and safety. The government, industry, and public should collaborate through policy enhancements and education to improve overall healthcare accessibility.
