Macau, september 17, 2025 — The planned opening of the iRad medical centre at Macau's Studio City integrated resort has been delayed after authorities withheld approval for its scheduled launch in october. Developed by the Melco Group, the facility aimed to establish itself as the region’s premier private imaging and medical check-up centre within a major entertainment complex. Despite the company's recent announcements emphasizing potential improvements to local healthcare services, regulatory authorities have paused operations pending a thorough review of compliance measures under stringent oversight policies.
A spokesperson for the Melco Group expressed regret over the delay but highlighted the importance of full regulatory alignment. “While we remain committed to advancing healthcare services in Macau, we respect the regulatory framework and will work closely with officials to address all outstanding requirements,” the representative said, reflecting the group's intent to maintain transparent cooperation with Macau health authorities.
The approval suspension is linked to Macau’s comprehensive medical infrastructure regulations governed by Law No. 6/2012, which regulates private medical institutions regarding construction, certification, and operational standards. Macau’s health authorities conduct meticulous reviews to ensure that new facilities comply with critical criteria for patient safety, diagnostic reliability, and facility management. Lawrence Ho confirms Melco has opened three foreigner-only gaming zones in MacauThe decision aligns with the Special Administrative Region's overarching approach to protect public health interests, especially when integrating healthcare providers within non-traditional environments like integrated resorts.
Economically, the postponement introduces uncertainties for Melco's diversification efforts and Macau’s broader strategy to reduce dependence on gaming revenue. The delay may impact expected job creation in the healthcare sector and defer potential growth in medical tourism, a key focus in the region's infrastructure modernization plan. Stakeholders now face the challenge of recalibrating project timelines and compliance pathways amid growing pressure to expand integrated healthcare services within gaming resorts.
This development highlights the complex balance between regulatory caution and economic innovation in Macau’s evolving entertainment corridor. The evolving regulatory landscape will be decisive in determining whether healthcare integration within gaming hubs can sustain long-term service quality without hampering diversification ambitions.
