A new era of medical certificate in HA

Hospital Authority (HA) constantly looks at ways to enhance the patient journey. As part of the introduction of telehealth across Hong Kong, patients who consult their doctors and need a medical certificate, will receive one with a digital signature rather than a manual signature. The change applies to patients attending general out-patient clinics, specialist out-patient clinics and hospitals, as well as patients who conduct tele-consultations using HA mobile app ‘HA Go’. User of the app can even obtain certificates for themselves using the app’s ‘My Record’ section, making it more convenient than ever to opt for tele-consultations.

To echo with the Smart Village Pilot initiatives launched by the government, HA is inviting elderly people in rural and remote areas to take advantage of tele-consultations using ‘HA Go’ to save time and reduce the risk of infection. They can also settle their attendance fees and drug charges by e-payment.

Invite elderly in rural area to attend tele-consultation

Ms Luk, a grandmother in her 80s, used to attend physical consultations at North Lantau Hospital (NTLH) but attended her first tele-consultation with help from HA and the Tai O Rural Committee. NLTH Associate Consultant of Medicine and Geriatrics Dr Chen Wai assessed Ms Luk’s condition and the use of medicines online. Ms Luk said afterwards she believed the service would be more convenient for her once she got used to it, while her daughter Ms Lai said it would save travel and waiting time. Consultations at home are a major benefit for patients and their families and she hopes it will be extended to more districts of Hong Kong as the service is further developed.

Video of Tai O tele-consultation