Hong Kong's aging population faces challenges in accessing
healthcare and social services, particularly in the digital age. The Digital
Inclusion Policy, overseen by the Office of the Government Chief
Information Officer (OGCIO), addresses these challenges through initiatives
like the ICT Outreach Programme for the Elderly. Launched in 2013, this
program has been instrumental in bridging the digital divide by providing
elderly citizens with digital literacy training and access to technologies such
as virtual reality and telemedicine.
However, as demand grows, so must the scope and budget of
the policy. For many elderly individuals, particularly those living alone or in
isolated communities, this program is a lifeline. An additional $100 million
HKD in funding over the next two years could significantly expand the
program's reach. This expansion would not only increase access to digital tools
but also enhance the elderly's ability to use them confidently.
Consider Mrs. Lee, an 80-year-old woman in public
housing. She struggles with managing her diabetes and often feels isolated
from her family abroad. With the expanded program, Mrs. Lee could access
telemedicine services, enabling her to consult with healthcare professionals
from home, and use health monitoring apps, potentially reducing her hospital
visits by up to 30%—a figure supported by studies
on similar programs.
Stakeholders, including the Hong Kong Health Bureau
and NGOs like St. James' Settlement, support this expansion, recognizing
its potential to improve elderly care and reduce the burden on the healthcare
system. By securing this additional funding, the government can extend the
programme's reach to over 36,000 elderly individuals like Mrs. Lee.
Call to Action: The Hong Kong government must
prioritize expanding the Digital Inclusion Policy's budget and implementation.
This will not only improve the quality of life for the elderly but also
position Hong Kong as a leader in digital health innovation. Key stakeholders
should advocate for this expansion to ensure no elderly citizen is left behind
in the digital age.
By securing the additional $100 million HKD, the ICT
Outreach Programme can continue to be a cornerstone of elderly care, fostering
independence and significantly reducing healthcare burdens across Hong Kong.
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