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The Hong Kong government is moving forward with plans to strengthen the medical examination requirements for older commercial drivers, including taxi operators, in an effort to enhance road safety.
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Secretary for Transport and Logistics, Mable Chan, told the Legco on Wednesday that authorities are looking at lowering the age threshold for submitting a physical fitness certification from 70 to 65 years old.
Under the proposed changes, visual acuity standards will be raised, a new hearing ability requirement will be introduced, and drivers aged 65 and above will be required to undergo annual health assessments.
The government aims to finalize the legislative proposal in the fourth quarter of this year, report the findings to the Legislative Council's Panel on Transport in the first quarter of 2025, and implement the new arrangement by the second quarter of next year, said Chan.
Meanwhile, the transport chief stated that consultant and expert panels commissioned by the government are currently considering fine-tuning the specified medical conditions and physical disabilities that would affect driving capability, as well as updating the medical guidelines for doctors' reference.
To ensure a smooth transition, the government will invite drivers to participate in a trial medical assessment program in the fourth quarter of this year.
The initiative aims to familiarize frontline doctors with the updated medical guidelines and improve drivers' awareness of their health conditions and understanding of the new requirements.
(Marco Lam)
