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Estate doctors and policy on family medicine
1Department of Community and Family Medicine, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, 4/F Lek Yuen Health Centre, Shatin, Hong Kong.
Insights
Patient satisfaction with estate doctors in Hong Kong is high, contrary to perceptions of
Area of Science:
- Primary care
- Family medicine
- Healthcare systems
Background:
- A survey on patient experiences with estate doctors in Hong Kong was published.
- Widespread perception suggested 'doctor shopping' among patients in Hong Kong.
- Estate doctors reported dismay regarding the survey's publication.
Purpose of the Study:
- To analyze patient satisfaction levels with estate doctors.
- To investigate patient consultation patterns and choices.
- To identify areas for improvement in Hong Kong's primary medical care.
Main Methods:
- Analysis of survey data from patients consulting estate doctors.
- Comparison of patient demographics and care settings (estate doctors vs. out-patient departments).
Main Results:
- Patients consulting estate doctors reported high satisfaction levels.
- Most patients chose their doctor intentionally, challenging the 'doctor shopping' notion.
- Care segregation observed: estate doctors serve working-age families, while out-patient departments cater to older/unemployed individuals.
Conclusions:
- Further development of family medicine in Hong Kong is essential.
- Underlying issues in primary care stem from ingrained habits of doctors and patients.
- Systemic changes are needed to elevate Hong Kong's healthcare to modern standards.
Abstract:
Estate doctors were dismayed by the Hong Kong Council of Social Service's publication of a survey of patients leaving clinics after consultations. The data, however, show high levels of satisfaction from patients who consulted estate doctors, and most people (and their families) attended one doctor by choice, contrary to widespread perception of 'doctor shopping' in Hong Kong. Aspects of care in Hong Kong could be improved and include short consultation times, limited discussion, and frequent usage of short courses of medication. There is segregation of care: estate doctors see more working-age peolple and their families, while out-patient departments see older and unemployed people. The report concluded that further development of family medicine is needed in Hong Kong---a conclusion that the Estate Doctors Association shares. The survey demonstrates again some underlying problems of primary medical care in Hong Kong---problems which are largely related to the expectation and learned habits among both doctors and patients, and which must change for Hong Kong health care to reach the level expected in a modern, developed society.