Li support for knee-surgery patients kicks into high gear

The Euro 2020 final inspired tycoon Li Ka-shing to follow up on a project that subsidizes knee replacement surgeries.

The foundation named after him has announced it will put another HK$20 million into the Total Knee Replacement Surgery program by Precious Blood Hospital to benefit another 260 patients. The additional sponsorship came after Li watched news about the European Championship during a meal.

A foundation spokesman said: "The players' fierce footwork reminded Mr Li of the subsidy, so he urged his team to quickly announce the details of the scheme."

According to the Precious Blood price list in 2020, a knee-replacement surgery costs about HK$130,000 for one knee and more than HK$210,000 for both knees. Patients with a monthly household income of less than HK$80,000 over the past year and who have been waiting for knee-replacement surgery in public hospitals for more than three years are eligible to apply.

They can submit their applications directly to the hospital through WhatsApp, e-mail or post from July 19 to August 18.

The application form can be downloaded on the hospital's website and WhatsApp or collected from the hospital in Sham Shui Po.

"Priority is given to family breadwinners," the spokesman said.

Patients must also sign up for eHealth so surgeons can review their medical history. Doctors will determine whether the applicants are suitable for the replacement surgery.

Successful applicants will be given a subsidy ranging from 75 to 100 percent of the surgery costs subject to their financial situation.

The subsidy will cover the cost of the artificial joints, hospital charges, laboratory tests, 12 sessions of physiotherapy and two post-discharge follow-up consultation sessions.

Data from the Hospital Authority showed more than 30,000 people on the waiting list for total knee-replacement surgery, with a waiting period between three and seven years.

Launched in January, the program has seen more than 200 patients receiving knee joint implants so far.

The surgery replaces patients' knees with artificial knees made of titanium alloy or cobalt chrome alloy, which can last up to 20 years.

Li said: "More than 80 medical staff have participated thus far to enable smooth implementation of this program.

"Without them, our patients would not be able to 'stand up to knee pain.' "

The 92-year-old tycoon had a total knee-replacement surgery in the United States back in 2007. His knees were injured at a young age due to carrying heavy objects at work.

After the injury, playing golf everyday further aggravated his knees, which eventually led him to do the "life-changing" operation.

Jonathan Wai Heung-on, medical superintendent of Precious Blood Hospital, said the health-care workers were encouraged by Li's support.

"Many patients who are unable to work or need family care because of knee problems can go out on their own after a knee-replacement surgery," he said.

"This will not only reduce the burden on their families, but they can also return to work and help their families earn money."

carine.chow@singtaonewscorp.com