Bamboo scaffolding is dismantled as cleanup work is underway at the fire-ravaged buildings of Wang Fuk Court in Hong Kong's Tai Po district on Dec 12, 2025. (EDMOND TANG / CHINA DAILY)

The bureau said in a statement on Sunday that a variety of TCM services will be deployed to fully address the medical needs of all residents of the eight blocks at Wang Fuk Court, including foreign domestic helpers.

From Monday through Feb 28, 2026, eligible individuals will be able to access up to three complimentary TCM consultations, which include prescribed medications and related treatments based on clinical assessment.

The TCM services offered will provide holistic care for post-fire health concerns, addressing psychological effects like anxiety and insomnia, respiratory issues such as coughing and throat irritation, physical recovery from weakness and fatigue, digestive problems, and musculoskeletal pain or injuries.

Affected residents with medical needs can call a hotline or visit any District Health Centre or District Health Centre Express to access the services, regardless of their current place of residence.

Additionally, fire victims admitted to public hospitals under the Hospital Authority are eligible for a full fee waiver at the Chinese Medicine Hospital of Hong Kong (CMHHK) until Dec 31, 2026.

The waivers apply to all government-subsidized services at CMHHK, including general and specialized clinics, allied health services, day-patient care, and specified Western medicine diagnostic procedures and medications.

Following the deadly fire on Nov 26, the Chinese Medicine Clinics cum Training and Research Centres (CMCTRs) under the Hospital Authority promptly enhanced TCM services and offered medicine re-dispensing support in the Sha Tin, Tai Po and North districts of Hong Kong.

Since Dec 2, CMCTRs across all 18 districts have been providing comprehensive support to fire victims, with full medical fee waivers available until Dec 31, 2026. These waivers cover government-subsidized TCM outpatient services, including general consultations, acupuncture, and bone-setting treatments.

As of Sunday, the Support Fund for Wang Fuk Court in Tai Po had received HK$3.4 billion ($148.26 million) in donations. With start-up capital of $300 million from the special administrative region government, the fund has now reached around HK$3.7 billion.

Established by the SAR government, the fund will be used to assist residents in rebuilding their homes and providing long-term and sustained support.

Meanwhile, a total of 1,390 Wang Fuk Court residents had been accommodated in youth hostels, camps, or hotel rooms through the coordination of the Home and Youth Affairs Bureau as of Saturday morning.

Another 3,235 residents are currently living in transitional housing units provided by the Housing Bureau or the Hong Kong Housing Society.

The SAR government said the fire victims can remain in these transitional housing units for an extended period and need not worry about rental expenses.