Prudential Hong Kong Limited has entered into a new strategic agreement with Guangzhou United Family Hospital (GZU) and Shanghai United Family Hospital (SHU), becoming the first Hong Kong-based insurer to establish partnerships with both facilities simultaneously.
This collaboration allows eligible Prudential customers to access Medical Expenses Direct Billing Services at these hospitals, enhancing cross-border healthcare options for policyholders.
The partnership follows findings from Prudential’s “Medical Freedom Survey,” where over 70% of respondents indicated they frequently seek cross-border medical services but expressed a need for improvements in quality and consultation procedures.
In response, Prudential is expanding its cooperation with United Family Healthcare (UFH), extending services to key cities in mainland China, complementing its previous partnership with Shenzhen New Frontier United Family Hospital.
GZU and SHU, which are part of the UFH network, offer a variety of internationally accredited healthcare services, supported by their experienced medical staff and advanced technology.
Through this partnership, Prudential aims to provide its customers with greater convenience and a more streamlined healthcare experience, addressing the needs of those who regularly travel between Hong Kong and mainland China.
Lawrence Lam, CEO of Prudential Hong Kong Limited, said the strengthened partnership with UFH allows the insurer to deliver more efficient and seamless services for customers in two key cities in mainland China.
“We can now leverage our combined strengths to empower our customers in attaining more efficient and comprehensive cross-border medical services. It reaffirms our commitment to providing customers with greater ‘medical freedom’ and convenience,” he said.
Carl Wu, CEO of United Family Healthcare, commented on the partnership’s alignment with UFH’s goal of offering internationally recognised medical services.
“Both organisations are eager to pursue more innovative collaborations in the field of medical insurance in the Greater Bay Area,” he said.
Prudential’s customers will have access to priority consultation scheduling and hospital room arrangements, along with pre-approval for medical expenses.
Under the direct billing system, Prudential will manage payments directly with the hospitals, reducing the administrative burden on patients.
Additionally, GZU and SHU will offer transportation between hospitals in the UFH network for further treatment when necessary.
Vivian Liu, general manager of United Family Healthcare in Shanghai, said the partnership improves patient care by simplifying billing processes and providing support throughout the treatment journey.
Kelly Xia, general manager of Guangzhou United Family Hospital, said that the agreement meets the rising demand for cross-border medical services, especially for travellers between Hong Kong and the mainland.
GZU and SHU both provide a wide range of medical services, including internal medicine, surgery, emergency care, and specialty treatments. They are staffed by physicians with both international and domestic expertise, ensuring a high standard of care for patients.
