粤港澳大湾区共绘跨境养老“同心圆”

Core Insights - The article discusses the growing trend of Hong Kong seniors choosing to retire in mainland China, particularly in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, driven by a sense of belonging and improved living conditions [1][2]. Policy and Cooperation - In 2023, the Guangdong Provincial Civil Affairs Department and the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region government signed a memorandum to promote cross-border elderly care cooperation, leading to the establishment of the "Guangdong Elderly Care Plan" [1][3]. - As of August 2023, 657 Hong Kong seniors have participated in the Guangdong Elderly Care Plan, which aims to facilitate cross-border elderly care services [1][2]. Market Growth - By 2024, nearly 100,000 Hong Kong residents aged 65 and above are expected to settle in Guangdong, marking a 40.5% increase over the past decade [2]. - The number of recognized service institutions under the Guangdong Elderly Care Plan has expanded to 24, covering eight cities in the Greater Bay Area [2]. Service Providers - The cross-border elderly care ecosystem includes four main participants: professional elderly service operators, insurance companies, public elderly care institutions, and Hong Kong-funded enterprises [4]. - Companies like Chuanxuanmao, a high-end elderly service brand under the Oceanwide Group, play a significant role in this sector by providing quality care and services [4]. Financial Support and Insurance - Hong Kong seniors can benefit from financial support through the Hong Kong Social Welfare Department, which covers accommodation, nursing services, and basic medical expenses when they reside in recognized mainland institutions [3][7]. - Insurance companies are integrating their products with elderly care services, enhancing the appeal of their offerings [4]. Medical Integration - The integration of medical services is crucial for cross-border elderly care, with concerns about medical insurance coverage and the interoperability of medical records being significant issues for Hong Kong seniors [7][9]. - The "Hong Kong-Macao Drug and Medical Device Access" policy has been implemented to allow designated medical institutions in the Greater Bay Area to use drugs and medical devices already approved in Hong Kong and Macao [7]. Challenges and Solutions - The six-month waiting period for Hong Kong seniors to access mainland medical insurance benefits poses a challenge, along with the lack of interoperability in medical data [9]. - Recommendations include enhancing cooperation between Hong Kong's medical authorities and mainland institutions to streamline services and improve accessibility for seniors [9][10]. Future Developments - The Guangdong government is actively attracting Hong Kong service providers to establish elderly care institutions, offering equal treatment in market access and tax incentives [10]. - Financial services are evolving to support cross-border elderly care, with initiatives like the "Bank-Medical Link" service facilitating payment processes for Hong Kong seniors [10].