DH discovers clinic providing RGA hair growth service suspected of operating unlicensed day procedure centre
The Department of Health (DH) today (February 26) announced that a clinic in Causeway Bay is suspected of contravening the Private Healthcare Facilities Ordinance (Cap. 633) (the Ordinance) by operating a day procedure centre (DPC) without a licence. Two persons have been arrested.
Earlier, the DH received intelligence that a clinic located at Cameron Commercial Centre, 458–468 Hennessy Road, Causeway Bay, which did not hold a DPC licence, was suspected of illegally providing Regenera Activa (RGA) autologous cell transplant procedures. Acting on the information, the DH and the Police conducted a joint enforcement operation today. A batch of devices and instruments that could be used for RGA procedures, together with relevant records, were seized. During the operation, the person-in-charge of the clinic and a doctor were arrested. Investigation is ongoing, and prosecution will be considered based on the evidence collected.
In addition, the involved doctor is suspected of performing high-risk medical procedures in premises without an appropriate licence, therefore failing to act in patients' best interest when providing medical care. The DH has referred the case to the Medical Council of Hong Kong for follow-up.
The RGA procedure involves autologous transplantation. Under the Ordinance, transplantation of any cells, tissues or organs, including autograft, allograft, xenograft, processed tissue or blood products (such as platelet-rich plasma) and skin flap, are scheduled medical procedures. Such procedures, when performed in an ambulatory setting, must take place in a licensed DPC. Any person operating a DPC without a licence commits an offence and is liable on conviction to a fine of $100,000 and imprisonment for three years.
The DH issued a letter in mid-February to remind all doctors that, before performing RGA or other scheduled medical procedures stipulated in the Ordinance, they must verify that the premises holds a suitable licence, so as to ensure the best interests of patients and adherence to the Code of Professional Conduct.
The DH reiterated its appeal to the public that, before receiving RGA or other scheduled medical procedures stipulated in the Ordinance, they should confirm if the premises had obtained a DPC licence in accordance with the Ordinance. To assist the public in identifying licensed or exempted facilities, the DH has established the Private Healthcare Facilities Register, which lists all private healthcare facilities with valid licences and exemptions. DPCs must display their licence in a conspicuous place. Each licence bears a QR code that can be scanned using the eHealth app to verify its validity. For more information, please visit the DH's Office for Regulation of Private Healthcare Facilities webpage.
Speech by DCS at Ramadan Iftar Dinner
Following is the speech by the Deputy Chief Secretary for Administration, Mr Cheuk Wing-hing, at the Ramadan Iftar Dinner tonight (February 26):
Deputy Commissioner Hua (Deputy Commissioner of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the People's Republic of China in the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, Mr Hua You),Consul General Evcin (Consul General, Turkish Consulate General in Hong Kong, Mr Kerim Sercan Evcin),Mr Wassermann (Head of Hotels and Serviced Apartments at Miramar Group, Mr Alexander Wassermann), distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,
Good evening. It is both an honour and a privilege to join you tonight at this special Ramadan Iftar Dinner, graciously co-hosted by the Turkish Consulate General in Hong Kong and the Miramar Group.
Allow me first to congratulate the Consulate General for organising this meaningful gathering - one that celebrates the spirit of Ramadan, strengthens bonds of friendship, and promotes intercultural understanding.
Ramadan is a sacred month for Muslims worldwide - this is a time of reflection and renewal, self-discipline and compassion, charity and unity. It reminds us of the importance of community, the value of sharing, and the pursuit of spiritual growth. Tonight's gathering embodies these very noble principles, bringing together people of diverse backgrounds to share in a tradition that transcends borders, bridges cultures and cultivates mutual respect.
Islam is one of the major religions in Hong Kong. The Muslim community has long been an integral part of our beloved city. Recognising the importance of social harmony, the Government of the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region works in earnest to promote mutual understanding, to support community development, and to preserve the cultural and religious heritages that enrich our home. Hong Kong prides itself as a place that people of different faiths can live side by side in harmony.Yet, harmony cannot be built by government alone. It requires the commitment of all sectors, all communities and all faiths, working together to nurture a society that is diverse, inclusive and united.
We are grateful for the collaboration and friendship of our community partners and diplomatic missions - especially the Turkish Consulate General in Hong Kong, whose steadfast support has been vital to our shared work.
Building on this foundation, we are committed to further promoting Muslim tourism and facilitating Halal certification, as outlined in the Chief Executive's 2025 Policy Address. Our goal is clear: to enhance Muslim-friendly services for our residents, and to position Hong Kong as a welcoming destination for Muslim visitors from around the world. Through sustained collaboration, we can strengthen Hong Kong's reputation as a vibrant, inclusive city and enrich its cultural tapestry with diversity.
In closing, may I wish you all a good time at this marvellous event hosted by the Turkish Consulate General, and have peace, joy and countless blessings in the Year of the Horse.Thank you very much.
Source: AI-found images
