Tony Ko reflects on tenure as Hospital Authority chief: No regrets, calls for healthcare improvements

Outgoing Hospital Authority chief executive Tony Ko Pat-sing reflects on his six-year tenure, acknowledging both achievements and areas for improvement as he prepares to step down at the end of July.

In a TV interview on Sunday, Ko said that both Secretary for Health Lo Chung-mau and HA chairman Henry Fan Hung-ling attempted to convince him to stay, but he feels it is the right time to move on. 

He said the HA's successful navigation of the pandemic, enhanced cooperation with mainland and international partners, and advancements in smart healthcare were significant milestones during his leadership.

Ko announced on January 23 that he would not seek reappointment after his term concludes. 

When asked about recent medical incidents indicating potential structural issues, he said that while treatment methods are becoming more effective, their complexity can lead to increased incidents, particularly with the high patient volume in public hospitals. 

He said the importance of continuously enhancing the healthcare system while reaffirming Hong Kong’s internationally recognized healthcare standards.

Addressing concerns about the government's plans to cut funds due to financial deficits, Ko said that the HA is considering purchasing medications and equipment from the mainland, which he believes will not hinder the Ten-Year Hospital Development Plan. 

He also indicated that salary adjustments would be linked to overall employee performance, advocating for a system where poor performance impacts salary increases, while high achievers are rewarded.

Ko discussed a shift in the HA's approach to overtime bonuses, moving from a focus on hours worked to the amount of work completed, such as the number of reports or checks. 

This change aims to better motivate staff.

Looking ahead to the flu season, Ko anticipates a surge in flu activity post-Lunar New Year but noted that this season has not yet reached the severity of previous years. 

He expressed concern over recent cases of unvaccinated children with severe flu, saying the importance of vaccination in reducing complications.

With emergency departments experiencing over 6,000 daily visits, Ko urged patients with mild symptoms to consider alternatives like over-the-counter medications or consulting community pharmacists instead of flooding emergency rooms. 

He also called on private doctors to resume consultations during the Lunar New Year to help meet healthcare demands.

(Cheng Wong)