Gov-funded Programme

Human Health Medical Center Offers Free COVID-19 Antiviral Medications for eligible patients under the Government Subsidy Program

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic, respiratory diseases have become a significant concern in society, including influenza, adenovirus, RSV, and measles. Although the COVID-19 pandemic has passed, the threat of COVID-19 remains. The simultaneous attack by bacteria and viruses can lead to secondary pneumonia, which can be severe and potentially fatal in a short time, so it is crucial not to be complacent.

When immunity is low, bacteria and viruses can spread from the upper respiratory tract to the lower respiratory tract, leading to severe illness, and COVID-19 is one of the diseases that can easily cause severe complications. Since April 2, 2022, the government has been providing private doctors with free prescriptions for the oral antiviral medication Paxlovid to ensure that COVID-19 patients receive appropriate treatment. Under this policy, private doctors will not charge any fees for these prescribed medications, helping them provide suitable prescriptions for those in need and effectively supporting COVID-19 patients. Therefore, COVID-19 patients can still inquire and obtain this oral medication for free from consulting doctors to prevent severe illness.

As one of the government-recognized service providers, Human Health Medical Center will prescribe the aforementioned oral COVID-19 medication free of charge to COVID-19 patients. If you experience COVID-19 symptoms, you can visit one of Human Health medical clinics. If you are confirmed positive for COVID-19 or have a positive rapid test result, it is essential to receive appropriate treatment promptly to avoid worsening conditions.

A list of private doctors registered in the Health Connect program who can prescribe oral medications for COVID-19 has been uploaded to www.coronavirus.gov.hk/pdf/tp_pd_antiviral.pdf for public access. This list will be updated as the number of doctors changes.

For more details, please refer to the government announcement regarding the list of private doctors who can prescribe oral COVID-19 medications.

Information on Free COVID-19 Medications: The oral antiviral medication Paxlovid is suitable for high-risk patients with mild to moderate symptoms and can effectively reduce the risk of severe illness.

Eligibility for Free COVID-19 Medications:

The following high-risk groups can apply for free COVID-19 medications after a positive diagnosis:

1. aged 70 and above; or
2. aged below 70 with chronic diseases (e.g., diabetes, cardiovascular disease, chronic lung disease); or
3. Immunocompromised individuals (e.g., cancer patients, HIV-infected individuals, organ transplant recipients); or
4. Other patients deemed priority for treatment by a doctor.

For details, please consult your family doctor.

How to Apply for Free COVID-19 Medications:

1. Seek Medical Attention Immediately After Diagnosis: If your rapid test or PCR result is positive, visit a nearby Human Health Medical Center as soon as possible.
2. Doctor Evaluation and Prescription: The doctor will assess your symptoms, health status, and risk level to determine if you are suitable for the COVID-19 medication and will issue a prescription.

Important Notes:

• Seize the Treatment Window: COVID-19 medications should be taken within five days of symptom onset for optimal effectiveness; do not delay seeking care.
• Follow Medical Advice: Medications may have side effects or interact with other drugs, so be sure to inform your doctor of your medication history and health conditions.
• Continue Monitoring Your Health: If symptoms worsen (e.g., difficulty breathing, chest pain), seek medical attention immediately.

FAQs:

Can non-high-risk individuals apply for free medications? If symptoms are severe or assessed by a doctor as necessary, free medication treatment may still be available.

Is there enough supply of free medications? The government has sufficient supplies of medications and continuously monitors the supply situation to ensure timely treatment for patients.