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In Hong Kong, the territory-wide Electronic Health Record Sharing System (eHRSS) is essential
for the smooth integration and coordination of care, and should be leveraged upon in the
discussion on ADs. By uploading information on ADs to the electronic platform, timely access
to this important information would also be made possible. It is indeed ambiguous to compare
the possible hazard of time lag in eHRSS, as suggested by consultation question 23, to the
vulnerability of keeping a paper form of an AD. Both factors present similar odds in failing to
honour end-of-life wishes of individuals attributable to logistical hurdles.

As we move towards a primary care-led, person-centred, integrated health system, community
resources should continuously be leveraged upon as we shift care burden from our currently
overstretched hospitals into the community. In light of this, it is our view that an apt utilisation of
the eHRSS is essential not only for the continuity of care between sectors, but specifically, is
pertinent in facilitating EoLC service provision in community and primary care settings.
Regardless of complexity, a technological challenge should be tackled technologically. Instead
of taking the more anachronistic approach of resorting to a physical form, robust studies and
trials should be conducted to ensure that our health system can leverage on the advancement of
technology.

We understand that the development of the eHRSS is still in its infancy. Still, it will be
conducive for our electronic health record system to become robust enough to support the
provision of high-quality healthcare services across the life course, including the final stages of
life, in a timely manner.

2.4 Community resources are needed to actualise dying in place

Consultation Question 29
Do you agree that, as a prerequisite to promote dying in place, the relevant provisions
of the Coroners Ordinance should be amended to exempt certain deaths in RCHEs from
reportable deaths?

Our Hong Kong Foundation [✔] Agree [ ] Disagree

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