Collaboration key to preparedness for winter surge

HA began dialogue on winter surge preparation plan with clusters in August. Key measures include increasing the number of beds and enhancing external collaboration. Dr Ian Cheung, Chief Manager (Cluster Performance), expresses that part of the 500-some beds planned for 2018/19 will be opened in advance as time-limited beds during winter surge; and temporary beds will be opened when necessary to meet the surging demand for inpatient service.

Meanwhile, HA will collaborate with various government departments and external parties to increase service capacity and alleviate pressure on frontline colleagues. HA will invite doctors via Department of Health and Hong Kong Medical Association to work on part-time basis; liaise with the Social Welfare Department to enhance care and infection control at Residential Care Homes (RCHs), and speed up placement of patient requiring RCHs service; solicit support from Auxiliary Medical Service, Hong Kong Society for Rehabilitation and Hong Kong St. John Ambulance to enhance patient transportation; and collaborate with private hospitals that provide low‑charge beds on inpatient services by transferring suitable patients when necessary.

Besides, clusters and hospitals are adopting creative initiatives to promote seasonal influenza vaccination among staff and the public. Queen Mary Hospital organised a concert in October with performances of famous melodies with new lyrics composed by doctors from the Medical Department and colleagues of the Infection Control Team. Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Hospital and Tai Po Hospital (TPH) held six talks on seasonal influenza vaccination for staff. And a promotional activity was held by TPH in late November to educate the public about seasonal influenza prevention. HA also collaborates with the Association of Hong Kong Nursing Staff (AHKNS) for the first time to encourage nurses to take flu jab. Members who show relevant documents of vaccination will receive a supermarket gift coupon by AHKNS.

Staff encouraged to join SHS

Hospital management will liaise with ward staff to consider adjusting the reference to occupancy rate in activating Special Honourarium Scheme (SHS), amid the ward crowdedness and extra workload due to the addition of time-limited beds. SHS will also be extended to more departments involved in direct patient service, apart from designated specialty wards. To facilitate staff participation, SHS sessions starting from two hours or more can be arranged.