Secretary for Food & Health Dr York Chow says he hopes to start public consultation on the non-mandatory medical insurance scheme by the middle of next year.

Dr Chow told reporters today the issue of medical financing should not be withheld for too long.

"The more we delay this issue the more serious it will be because we are facing an ageing population as well as the escalating cost of healthcare. We must make preparations for the future and particularly our next generation," he said.

As the Chief Executive announced yesterday in the 2009-10 Policy Address, the Government plans to introduce a non-mandatory medical insurance scheme with a saving element.

Dr Chow said the non-mandatory scheme will attract more subscribers and offer better protection after Government regulation.