HA defends urgent surgery for new cluster chief amid queue-jumping allegations

The Hospital Authority (HA) on Thursday defended the urgent eye surgery received by newly appointed Cluster Chief Executive Deacons Yeung Tai-kong, saying the procedure was handled in accordance with established medical protocols.

The statement came after online allegations accused Yeung — the incoming Cluster Chief Executive for the New Territories West and Hospital Chief Executive of Tuen Mun Hospital — of receiving preferential treatment for a retinal detachment surgery at United Christian Hospital (UCH) in early October.

According to the claims, Yeung “jumped the queue” by obtaining a consultation on September 30 and securing an operation date for October 2, ahead of other patients.

The arrangement reportedly resulted in the postponement of a non-urgent surgery to accommodate his procedure.

Sources also alleged that Yeung requested specialized equipment be transferred from Tseung Kwan O Hospital and sought assistance from a team of experienced nurses.

In response, a spokesman for the Kowloon East Cluster declined to comment on Yeung’s personal health condition but stressed that acute retinal detachment is a medical emergency requiring prompt surgery to prevent permanent vision loss.

The spokesman confirmed that one non-urgent patient’s operation had been rescheduled and described the equipment transfer as an “efficient use of resources.” A detailed report on the case has since been submitted to the HA Head Office.

Yeung, a specialist in radiology, was appointed on Monday (Oct 13) to head the New Territories West Cluster and Tuen Mun Hospital. His new role will take effect in February.