Insurers are urged to adopt a flexible approach in providing employees' compensation insurance for the medical profession, Secretary for Financial Services & the Treasury Frederick Ma says.

Mr Ma said today the industry has reservations about providing insurance to private hospitals and clinics with over 10 staff members.

The Government attaches great importance to the issue and hopes insurers can reach an agreement with the medical profession by the end of the year.

During a meeting with insurers last week, the Government explained the risk management in hospitals and clinics.

"We have already told them that the risk of medical staff getting infectious diseases at their workplace is not that high. We hope they will understand the situation."

When asked whether the Government would consider offering financial assistance, Mr Ma said he needs to study the move carefully because it will involve public spending.

He said there is no need to take this step at this stage, adding that the Government hopes both sides can solve the problem by themselves.