The proposed Standard Drug Formulary, which will help ensure good medical practice, delivery of effective treatment to patients and rational use of resources, is expected to roll out in July, Hospital Authority Chief Executive Dr William Ho says.

Speaking on a radio talk show today, Dr Ho said the proposed formulary aims to ensure equitable access to cost effective drugs of proven efficacy and safety, through standardisation of drug policy and utilisation in all public hospitals and clinics.

He believed the drug policy as well as the range, choice, classification and indication for the use of drugs will be clearly defined after the formulary is introduced.

Most of the drugs will be included in the list, except those with marginal benefits over existing alternatives but at a significantly higher cost, with preliminary medical evidence and lifestyle drugs. A safety net will be offered to people who cannot afford non-standard drugs.

Dr Ho said there is room to refine the proposal, adding views from professionals and the public have been considered. Public education will also be stepped up to boost understanding of the issue.

On healthcare financing, Dr Ho noted Hong Kong has been facing an aging population and limited resources. The growth of the aged population is four times higher than other population groups, and the medical expenses involved is six times higher than for those under 65.

He stressed raising medical fees would ease the workload and psychological pressure of frontline staff as well as the fiscal situation. The community should discuss and explore other ways, such as medical insurance and taxation, and reach consensus on the issue of healthcare financing, he added.