Chinese Government to Increase Spending on Health Reforms
Aparna Krishnan
Copyright 2007, Global Insight Limited. All Rights Reserved.
Federal healthcare spending is expected to increase in China, with the government poised to raise its contributions to healthcare reform. According to China Daily, Chinese health minister Chen Zhu has asserted the need for greater responsibility and contribution from the government. Zhu's comments were released in a report on medical care and public health system reforms currently being evaluated by the Politburo Standing Committee. The government's support to the health sector leaves a fair amount to be desired, with Ministry of Health figures pointing out that just 17% of its expenses are covered by state contributions, the source notes. The government is contemplating drawing up a drug subsidy to medical users and providers in order to partake some of the costs involved in treatments.Significance: The main emphasis of the health reform is to expand the accessibility of health services and cut medical bills.
The focus of the 2020 vision set forth by the Chinese government covers public health, medical care and insurance, drug supply, and hospital management. Although there are no financial details available, the acknowledgement is a step forward and policy measures to that effect from the federal government are expected to be announced in the short term. |
发表于 2008-1-23 08:57:52