Heartfelt support: Over 100 cardiac patients empowered by HK$30 million subsidy scheme

More than 100 cardiac patients have benefited from a Hong Kong Sanatorium & Hospital (HKSH) subsidy scheme, made possible by a generous HK$30 million donation from the Li Ka Shing Foundation. 

The Transcatheter Cardiovascular Interventions Subsidy Scheme, launched by the HKSH Cardiology Center in 2018, offers vital financial assistance to patients in need of procedures related to heart diseases, including those suffering from blocked coronary arteries.

Under this scheme, the foundation covers the cost of surgeries, while the hospital and the involved doctors reduce hospital and consultation charges. 

Over the past six years, the scheme has received HK$30 million from the foundation, enabling it to support over 100 patients. 

Each beneficiary received subsidies ranging from HK$180,000 to HK$500,000, depending on the procedures performed.

Walton Li Wai-tat, CEO of HKSH Medical Group, expressed gratitude to the foundation for its donations, saying that patients facing financial difficulties can access advanced treatments at HKSH thanks to these subsidies.

One notable example is a 67-year-old patient, surnamed Yeung, who was diagnosed with a heart murmur years ago. 

Yeung experienced increased shortness of breath and decreased exercise capacity, with his condition worsening despite medication. 

Even mild physical activities, such as climbing stairs, caused severe discomfort. 

After a comprehensive assessment at the HKSH Cardiology Center, he was diagnosed with severe aortic valve stenosis and received around HK$500,000 in subsidies for surgery.

Reflecting on his journey, Yeung said: “I experienced significant improvement in my quality of life a year after the surgery. I can now climb stairs and even go hiking with ease. 

"Given my financial situation, I might have missed the opportunity for treatment if I had to bear the full surgical costs. This subsidy scheme has provided timely assistance to many cardiac patients in need and restored our health.”

The hospital announced that applications for the subsidy scheme will continue this year, ensuring ongoing support for those in need.

(Wallis Wang)