More than 40,000 elderly received a comprehensive annual health assessment in 2004-05 at the Department of Health's 18 elderly health centres, Secretary for Health, Welfare & Food Dr York Chow says.

He told legislators today the department is collaborating with various elderly centres, to train them to use the health assessment tool to conduct health assessments for their elderly members under a trial scheme.

"However, regular body checks do not guarantee that all hidden illnesses can be identified. Therefore we keep reminding the elderly they should seek medical consultation when they are not feeling well," he said.

"We will continue to strengthen the geriatric training of public and private family doctors and community doctors, so that more elders will be able to receive comprehensive primary health care."

$14b spent on elderly healthcare

Dr Chow said the Government places great emphasis on elderly health, providing them with health education, assessments (including body checks), medical care, and services promoting healthy living.

It is estimated about $14 billion was spent on elderly healthcare services in 2003-04.

Elderly patients who are Comprehensive Social Security Assistance recipients are waived medical charges for healthcare services. Elderly patients who have financial difficulties but are not CSSA recipients can apply for a medical fee waiver.

"The 18 elderly health centres regularly conduct eye and ear checks, providing treatment or referring them to specialist out-patient clinics."

$8m in dental grants

Dr Chow said the Oral Health Education Unit has been actively promoting oral hygiene among the elderly and the general public. There are 11 dental clinics which offer emergency dental treatment free of charge, and seven dental clinics in public hospitals providing specialist care.

Elderly CSSA recipients are given special grants to cover dental treatment charges. In 2003-04, about $8 million was been spent on providing elderly CSSA recipients special grants for dental work.