Evidence-based Studies for Guiding Rehabilitation Policy in HK

Lead  Prof. Hector TSANG

Department of Rehabilitation Sciences | Mental Health Research Centre | Research Centre for Chinese Medicine Innovation | Research Institute for Sports and Technology

Led by Prof. Hector Tsang, the Rehabilitation Programme Plan (RPP) research project has provided a strong evidence base for advancing rehabilitation policy in Hong Kong. Commissioned by the Government in 2017, the interdisciplinary research team adopted a bottom-up approach to examine key challenges faced by people with disabilities (PWDs), carers and service providers, including ageing with disabilities, community support, carer needs and the application of health technology.

Through extensive public engagement with over 3,000 stakeholders, the team developed strategic recommendations that informed the development of Persons with Disabilities and Rehabilitation Programme Plan 2020–2030, a long-term roadmap for Hong Kong’s rehabilitation services.

Since 2020, 49 university-proposed recommendations have been implemented, contributing to a nearly 10% increase in service users, zero waiting time for preschool rehabilitation services achieved in 2024/25 alongside a tripling of service places, enhanced financial subsidies and a 24-hour carer support hotline. The research has also strengthened NGO services through innovative model - Integrated Community Rehabilitation Centres, and promoted technology-enabled service innovation, improving community rehabilitation support for PWDs, their families and service providers.