Dr Vivian Wong will head the Hospital Authority from September 20 until a new chief executive is appointed.

The authority has started a global search for a new chief as Dr William Ho has opted not to renew his contract which expires September 19. He will take up the post of Consultant (Community Medicine) instead.

Dr Wong will undertake the management and executive functions of the authority until December 31 or when a new chief is appointed.

She is the authority's Director (Professional Services & Medical Development) and has served since September 1992.