Services for type 1 diabetes

Posted by lcbrooks (99 days ago)

I'm moving to HK in September long term and trying to get an idea of how the health system works for people with diabetes. Does anyone have experience of living in HK with insulin dependent diabetes? I know the drugs are available but I'm concerned about cost as I am working as a volunteer for a charity. Also access to prescriptions how does it work? Do I have to go to a specialist or can i just visit a regular doctor and get my prescriptions? Am finding it hard to find info online and had no reply from HK Diabetes association. Any info would be much appreciated as I'd really like to know what I'm getting into health wise before I go!

(I am based in Hong Kong)

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Posted by expat hk (89 days ago)

Hi, my son is type 1 diabetic, he has a specialist who checks him every few months.Apart from that he see regular Doctor who can supply insulin.Or you may just get a prescription and shop around to get better price for meds as most private Dr's charge alot more for drugs.Or you can go to the government hospital will take longer but they have good diabetic clinic which you can go as a private patient or a public(which takes longer for appoinment)If your sugar is controlled a general Dr can look after you,again depending if you have health cover for private Dr's.But if you get sick you can just go to Government hospital and they will look after you and get Dr's.We are Australian living long term in HK,my son prefers the Dr's in HK ,Australia too long to see specialist,here no problem.

(I am based in Hong Kong)

Posted by lcbrooks (87 days ago)

Hi

Thank you so much for your reply - it's great to get some information! I think there's a regular doctor near where I'm living so guess I'll just get my prescriptions from him. I'll see what sort of prices he charges! It seems you get your drugs more from the doctor rather than the pharmacy like in UK or Australia? Think I'll see my specialist back home for routine stuff but encouraging to know if something goes wrong the government hospitals are ok. Do you dispose of your sharps with your doctor too? All these things to think about! Thank you again for your advice - much appreciated!

Laura

(I am based in Hong Kong)