Press Releases

SHWF asked HA to suspend quota system on organ transplants

In response to media enquiries, the Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food, Dr Yeoh Eng-kiong, said today (August 10) that he does not agree that there should be a quota system for organ transplants and has asked the Hospital Authority (HA) to suspend the system.

"I acknowledge and understand HA faces resource constraints and both the hospital management and medical professionals have been trying their best to offer quality services under difficult situations," he said.

"However, there are certainly better arrangements to address the resource constraints. The HA is asked to reconsider better options in the management of organ transplants," Dr Yeoh said.

He added that precious donated organs suitable for transplant should never go wasted because many patients are waiting for the operation.

"The government has already acknowledged the issue of resources in the proposed health care financing options.

"The proposals will be implemented in stages, starting with proposals for fee structure revamps in the public health sector within this year," Dr Yeoh said.

Saturday, August 10, 2002