From HK to MK: patient experiences from MK's Hong Kong community
Our conversations focused on how easy it is to use local NHS services, what barriers exist, and how these might be improved.
What did we do?
We attended a Hong Kongers meet-up and launched a Cantonese language survey to better understand what impact that the cultural disconnect is having. Patients described difficulty adjusting to the NHS approach, especially the ‘wait and see’ model, fragmented care pathways, and unclear updates. Mental health support is especially underused because of both language barriers and cultural stigma.
What we found
79% of those surveyed felt uncomfortable or unable to talk to their GP about their mental health.
13% of respondents felt that health services understood their cultural needs.
17% reported a positive recent medical experience.
We also heard significant frustration with accessing GP services—particularly the very early online booking windows, long waits, and the complexity of using the NHS App.
New arrivals find registration slow and confusing, and delays in call-backs or prescriptions create extra stress.
Our work showed how a complicated bureaucratic process and poor communication across services can leave communities feeling unsupported and not understood by their health care professionals.
