Enhanced Bought Place Scheme (EBPS) places do have higher standards than basic private care homes, but that does not mean every bought-place home is suitable for your family member. You should still visit in person and should not decide based only on the "bought place" label.
The Enhanced Bought Place Scheme was launched in 1998. Under the scheme, the Government purchases places from private homes that meet higher standards. EA1-level standards include:
- Floor area per resident: 9.5 square metres, the same as subsidised care-and-attention homes.
- Staffing: 42 staff members for every 100 beds, including 5 nurses.
- Monthly fee: HK$1,763, under government subsidy.
- Application: assessment through the Central Waiting List and the Single Assessment Mechanism for Elderly Services (SCNAMES) is required.
One advantage is that the waiting time is generally shorter than for subsidised care-and-attention home or nursing home places, so it can be an alternative while waiting for a subsidised place.
However, place standards are not the same thing as whether a particular home's hygiene, staff attitude, and activity arrangements fit your family member's needs. An in-person visit should not be skipped.
Learn more -> Full comparison of subvented, contract, and private care homes, or Overview of residential care services.