Free economy and birthing…
Many of my friends know that I’m a “free economy” type of guy. No wonder then that I ended up residing in Hong Kong – reportedly the most free economy in the world. I put it down to that American B-school education … or was that a case of self-selection! (Economics joke!)
Well, my dear friends, the free economy has its advantages BUT, for those that can pay, you certainly will PAY. Ok, what do I mean? Stacey and I have decided to select a “semi-private” room in the Sanatorium Hospital.
Birthing “privately” in Hong Kong (probably like anywhere) is not cheap but this week, during our visit, we had to laugh (cry) at the pay-scale of the maternity packages. E.g.:
- Epidurals: additional charge for general ward HK$4,000; semi-private HK$6,000; private room HK$8,000
- Cesarean Section 8am-10pm Mon-Sat: general ward HK$2,500; semi-private HK$3,500; private room HK$4,500
- Emergency Cesarean (ie out of normal hours or no booking!): general ward HK$6,000; semi-private HK$9,000; private room HK$12,000
- Collection of cord blood: general ward HK$500; semi-private HK$750; private room HK$1,000
- Husband accompanying wife: HK$500 – thank goodness no scale!
Even our obstetrician’s fees go up 50% for selecting a semi-private room!
Of course, you choose to pay whatever level you think you can afford no matter what the input cost to supply the services. Will an epidural cost the hospital more in drugs/labour just because the patient is in a private room? Of course not! This pricing (as it should be for any retail product in a free market) is driven by what customers are willing to pay.
You gotta smile … and open your wallet.
All is well in Hong Kong from Ian, Stacey and “free economy inspired” bump!
P.S. did you know Stacey is an economics major from Boston University - makes for very interesting household debates! and, yes, A Beautiful Mind is one of our favorite movies.
p.p.s.s. Stacey is just able to squeeze into that little red t-shirt at 35 weeks. But we reckon this will be last pic before Monkey makes his grand arrival! All bets welcome on the actual delivery!
