Health Care Law at Macau
Macau's healthcare system operates under a legal framework that integrates public and private services, with a strong emphasis on regulation, licensing, and professional standards. Here's an overview of the key aspects of healthcare law in Macau:
🏛️ Legal and Regulatory Framework
Civil Law System: Macau follows a civil law legal system, influenced by its historical connection to Portuguese law, which is part of the Roman-Germanic family of legal systems. This framework underpins the regulation of healthcare services and professionals in the region. (Shifts in Medical Liability in the Macau SAR - Oxford Academic)
Health Bureau (SSM): The Health Bureau (Serviço de Saúde de Macau, SSM) is the primary government agency responsible for coordinating public health activities, licensing healthcare providers, and ensuring compliance with health regulations. (Health Bureau (Macau))
🩺 Licensing and Regulation of Healthcare Professionals
Medical Malpractice Law (Law No. 5/2016): This law establishes the legal regime for medical malpractice, setting out the responsibilities of healthcare providers and the rights of patients. It includes provisions for the licensing and regulation of medical professionals. (Full Licence for Health Professionals – First-time Application)
Administrative Regulation No. 5/2017: This regulation, amended by Administrative Regulation No. 49/2021, outlines the procedures for licensing healthcare professionals in Macau. It specifies the requirements for first-time applications and the necessary documentation to ensure compliance with medical malpractice laws. ([PDF] Free Translation)
Mandatory Professional Liability Insurance: Healthcare providers in Macau are required to obtain compulsory professional liability insurance. This policy covers liability for damages arising from bodily or mental injuries caused to a patient due to a breach of law or applicable regulations. ([PDF] INSURANCE REGULATORY UPDATE Compulsory Professional ...)
🏥 Healthcare Services and Coverage
Public Healthcare System: All legal residents of Macau are entitled to free services at Health Centres and supplementary check-ups at Conde de São Januário Hospital by referral from the Health Centres. The government provides considerable resources to medical and healthcare to optimise medical services and various healthcare facilities. (Health / Social Welfare - 人才發展委員會)
Healthcare Vouchers: Since 2009, the Government has implemented a medical subsidy scheme, distributing healthcare vouchers to every Macao permanent resident on an annual basis to enhance public health consciousness and subsidise medical expenses. ([PDF] Healthcare - NEWS GOV-MO)
🧾 Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM)
Regulation of TCM: In 2022, Law No. 11/2021 came into effect, regulating the practice of Traditional Chinese Medicine in Macau. This law repealed the previous Decree-Law No. 53/94/M and established a legal framework for the practice of TCM in the region. (Traditional Chinese medicine)
🌐 Access for Expats and Non-Residents
Healthcare Access for Expats: Expats and non-residents with a valid ID can access free medical services at government-funded healthcare clinics and public hospitals. However, it is common for patients from Macau to be medically transferred to hospitals in Hong Kong for certain treatments. (A Guide to the Macau Healthcare System for Expats)
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