In a bid to bolster public health infrastructure and improve healthcare services, China’s National Health Commission (NHC), alongside the National Administration of Traditional Chinese Medicine and the National Disease Control and Prevention Administration, has unveiled its first batch of practical projects for 2024. These initiatives are part of a broader effort to enhance accessibility, affordability, and quality of care across the nation.
Expanded Services for Children and Mental Health
One of the key focuses of this initiative is improving pediatric care. Starting immediately, all Class 2 and 3 public comprehensive hospitals nationwide will be required to provide specialized pediatric services.
Additionally, at least one hospital in every city will offer psychological and sleep clinic services, addressing the rising demand for mental health support.
Streamlined Processes and Affordable Care
To reduce financial burdens on patients, outpatient advance payments will be abolished, and the amount of hospitalization advance payment for medical insurance patients will be lowered to align with the average level of individual self-payment for similar conditions. Furthermore, over 200 items of mutual recognition of inspection and testing results between medical institutions within the same city will be implemented, minimizing redundant tests and improving efficiency.
Enhancing Childcare and Essential Services
The government is also prioritizing childcare services, aiming to increase the number of childcare places for infants and young children under three years old per thousand population to 4.5 nationwide. Additionally, 660,000 new universal childcare spots will be added across the country, supporting working families. Counties with a permanent population of over 100,000 will now provide hemodialysis services, ensuring better access to critical treatments.
Blood donors will benefit from streamlined processes for reducing or exempting blood fees in different locations, enhancing convenience and encouraging more individuals to participate in blood donation programs.
Public Health Education and Preventive Care
The NHC has also announced plans to host over 20 health knowledge conferences on “Seasonal Solar Terms and Health,” emphasizing the importance of preventive care and seasonal health awareness. These conferences will serve as a platform for sharing valuable information and promoting healthier lifestyles across the population.-Fineline Info & Tech
