Survey finds opposition to United Hospital maternity move
SingTao · 2 SOURCESabout 2 hours ago2 MIN
Summary
A public debate has intensified after reports that United Christian Hospital's obstetrics services may be moved to Tseung Kwan O Hospital, while delivery services for Kwun Tong residents could later be handled by Kai Tak Hospital and Tseung Kwan O Hospital. A survey released on August 26 by the Democratic Alliance for the Betterment and Progress of Hong Kong found more respondents opposed the change than supported it, with transport access and continuity of care emerging as major concerns.
Key Points
- The DAB surveyed residents with childbearing intentions from August 17 to 26 and collected 519 valid responses on the proposed service reorganisation
- Among respondents, 43.9% opposed future delivery services shifting to Kai Tak Hospital, 35.8% supported the plan, and 20.2% were neutral.
- Lawmakers Cheung Pui-kong and Hung Kam-hin said about 60% of obstetric patients in the Kowloon East Cluster come from Kwun Tong District
- Respondents cited weak transport links to Kai Tak Hospital, familiarity with United Christian Hospital, and the current hospital's closer location as reasons for opposition.
- The Hospital Authority is reviewing obstetrics services in the Kowloon East Cluster; if approved, changes could begin in the 2027-28 financial year, before Kai Tak Hospital's obstetrics unit opens
Why It Matters
For expectant mothers in Kwun Tong, the timing of any service transfer could affect where they receive antenatal care and give birth, especially if replacement services are not available at the same time. The debate is also focusing attention on whether transport planning and public consultation are keeping pace with hospital redevelopment and service reshuffling in Kowloon East.