Following the devastating fire in Tai Po, Hong Kong’s Hospital Authority (HA) announced on December 5 that all patients previously listed in critical condition have stabilized, marking a significant positive turn in recovery efforts. Overall patient conditions continue to improve across public hospitals, where medical teams are maintaining intensive care and specialized support for the injured.
The tragic incident resulted in 79 individuals receiving treatment at various public hospitals. Initially, 19 of those injured were classified as critical, suffering from severe burns, smoke inhalation, and acute respiratory injuries. Subsequent medical intervention has led to upgrades in their health status. As of 6 p.m. on the reported date, 30 patients remained hospitalized. Notably, none of the remaining patients are listed in critical condition; six are in serious condition, while 24 are categorized as stable. Forty-nine individuals have been discharged and released from the hospital.
Comprehensive Care and Recovery Pathways
The HA’s clinical teams have implemented highly personalized treatment regimens aimed at maximizing recovery outcomes. These comprehensive plans include not only physical medical aid but also crucial mental health resources. Recognizing the profound trauma associated with the fire, the Authority confirmed that psychological support is being offered to both the patients and their immediate families to address emotional and mental health needs induced by the disaster.
Healthcare professionals are committed to sustained care throughout the necessary rehabilitation phases. The Authority expressed confidence in the resilience of the patients and their families as they navigate the long-term aftermath.
Financial Relief and Community Support
In a major measure to assist the affected community, the Hospital Authority extended a full waiver of medical fees for all residents of Wang Fuk Court. This waiver will remain in effect until December 31, 2026, providing substantial financial relief and ensuring comprehensive access to necessary healthcare services for over a year.
The waiver encompasses an extensive range of medical services provided by the HA:
- In-patient services and hospitalization costs.
- Family medicine and specialist out-patient clinics (including psychiatric Specialist Out-Patient Clinics, or SOPCs).
- Accident and Emergency (A&E) department services.
- Day hospitals and day procedures.
- Community-based services.
- Treatment received at the HA’s Chinese Medicine Clinics cum Training and Research Centres.
This unprecedented fee waiver underscores Hong Kong’s commitment to supporting citizens through catastrophic events, easing the burden on those who have lost homes and sustained injuries.
Moving Forward
The stabilization of all critical patients is a testament to the swift and expert medical response. While the immediate danger has passed, the focus now shifts toward long-term physical rehabilitation and psychological recovery. The availability of fully subsidized healthcare for residents of the affected building provides a stable environment for healing, allowing the community to focus entirely on rebuilding their lives and returning to normalcy following the widespread trauma. Stakeholders anticipate continued updates on patient progress and the ongoing community support efforts in the coming months.