A recent survey highlights a growing awareness among high-net-worth (HNW) individuals in Hong Kong regarding the importance of maintaining health alongside wealth, though turning this awareness into sustained action remains a challenge. Commissioned by Standard Chartered in partnership with HKSH Medical Group, the 2026 Hong Kong HNW Health & Wellness Study reveals that while nearly 80 percent of affluent Hongkongers have set health-related goals, only 53 percent have developed structured health management plans.
Hong Kong’s reputation for longevity has underscored the increasing emphasis on living well for longer. Advancements in medical technology and early disease detection provide opportunities for improved health outcomes, but these require consistent follow-through through regular check-ups, healthier lifestyle choices, and attention to mental well-being. The study found that 96 percent of respondents believe health and wealth are closely linked, yet a significant gap persists between setting health goals and implementing comprehensive plans to achieve them.
Among those who established health management plans, adherence appears more consistent, with nearly 70 percent following their plans for at least half of the previous year. The survey identified that individuals generally consider age 30 suitable to begin regular health examinations; however, the average age for their first comprehensive check-up was 33, and systematic health planning tended to start later, around age 38. Notably, respondents aged 50 and above often delayed formal health planning until the age of 45, over a decade later than younger counterparts.
Family medical history also plays a critical role in motivating preventive measures. Nearly 70 percent of respondents reported a family history of chronic illness, with 99 percent of this group taking preventive actions such as improved diet, routine screenings, or monitoring health indicators. Dr. Joseph Chan Woon-tong, Chief Medical Officer of HKSH Medical Group, emphasized the shift toward proactive health management, noting that regular health assessments enable earlier detection of risks before symptoms arise, facilitating timely intervention.
The survey also highlighted a discrepancy in eye health management. While 85 percent reported adopting basic eye care habits, only 40 percent had undergone comprehensive eye examinations in the past year, and 14 percent had never received one. In response, HKSH has expanded its family medicine services, aiming to provide individuals with dedicated family doctors familiar with their medical histories. Dr. Chan stressed that family doctor care, reinforced by routine comprehensive check-ups, serves as a fundamental defense in managing health assets.
Recognizing the potential for ongoing health planning akin to financial planning, the partnership between Standard Chartered and HKSH is set to launch enhanced health management services from October 2026. These services, available to eligible Priority Private clients, include personalized consultations with family doctors, health screenings, mental health support, and eye examinations—targeting intergenerational wellness needs. Furthermore, new Priority Private clients will receive a complimentary WHOOP 5.0 wearable health tracker with a one-year subscription, offering AI-driven insights to support informed decision-making on health.
With 91 percent of participants expressing interest in health management services delivered through collaborations between banks and healthcare providers, this initiative aims to bridge the divide between health awareness and effective, ongoing prevention for Hong Kong’s affluent population.