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The Secretary for Health, Welfare and Food, Dr Yeoh Eng-kiong, today (January 9) met with the visiting British Secretary of State for Trade and Industry and Minister for Women and Equality, Ms Patricia Hewitt, to exchange views on preventive measures against SARS (Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome) and women issues.
During the meeting, Dr Yeoh gave an account of the comprehensive preventive measures taken by Hong Kong in preparation for the possible resurgence of SARS as well as challenges facing Hong Kong in the healthcare sector.
Ms Hewitt was also briefed on the imminent setting up of the Centre for Health Protection, Hong Kong's new public health infrastructure for the prevention and control of communicable diseases.
Ms Hewitt was impressed by the Hong Kong Government's initiatives in fighting against emerging communicable diseases.
"I am particularly impressed by the Hong Kong Government's determination and preparedness in fighting communicable diseases. Their prompt actions are realised in the setting up of the Centre for Health Protection.
"Our Health Protection Agency stands ready to render any assistance and advice whenever necessary," Ms Hewitt said.
Dr Yeoh also told the Secretary of State that Hong Kong's effort in promoting the interests and well-being of women including bridging the digital divide for women, gender mainstreaming and women's participation in government advisory and statutory bodies.
Earlier in the day, Ms Hewitt visited the Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital to share experiences on the application of information technology in healthcare, including applications in the accident and emergency setting and the automated dispensary system.
Ms Hewitt also toured the newly completed isolation wards at the hospital where 120 isolation beds with enhanced isolation facilities had been put in place to guard against communicable diseases.
Ends/Friday, January 9, 2004
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