A Touchless Leap Forward: Bupa and Tencent Redefine Healthcare Check-Ins in Hong Kong
Published: 30 Jan 2026
Author: Precedence Research
The first palm-based check-in service in Hong Kong was launched by Bupa Hong Kong and Tencent, establishing a new standard for the city's digital healthcare experiences. The increasing demand for healthcare services that are quicker, more intelligent, and more patient-friendly is reflected in this creative solution. By replacing traditional front-desk registration and manual identity checks, the new system aims to significantly reduce waiting times while offering a more seamless and hygienic experience for patients visiting medical clinics.
Several clinics in Hong Kong's Bupa Medical Network have implemented the palm-based check-in service. At specific self-service terminals, patients can now instantly register without the need for physical documents, cards, or even cell phones by simply scanning their palm. QR code check-in options are also available for clinics without palm scanners, guaranteeing flexibility and accessibility for a variety of patients. This hybrid strategy maintains user convenience while guaranteeing seamless adoption.
Tencent's cutting-edge PalmAI technology, which combines palm print and palm vein recognition for precise and safe identification, is the foundation of this service. Palm-based authentication is especially appropriate for healthcare settings because it does not require patients to take off masks, unlike facial recognition systems. Higher hygiene standards, which are becoming more crucial in contemporary medical settings, are also supported by the technology's contactless design. The system improves clinic operational efficiency, patient privacy, and data security by combining biometric authentication with artificial intelligence.
The launch, according to executives from both companies, signifies a change in the way healthcare services are provided rather than merely technological advancement. The project is in line with Bupa's larger digital transformation and Connected Care strategy, which emphasizes enhancing patient journeys through clever data-driven solutions. Tencent, on the other hand, views collaboration as a chance to show how cloud and AI technologies can be used effectively in the healthcare industry. Together, the companies aim to create a more personalized, efficient, and future-ready healthcare ecosystem in Hong Kong. This palm-based check-in service puts Bupa and Tencent at the forefront of innovation and provides a window into the next wave of patient-centric healthcare experiences as the adoption of digital health accelerates throughout Asia.