Imagine getting healthcare anywhere in China as easily as ordering takeout . A new report reveals the country’s medical insurance system is leveling up, with 95% of citizens now covered – and major reforms making care faster, cheaper, and more accessible.
Cross-Region Care Goes Viral
In 2023, over 243 million medical visits were made across provincial lines – that’s like the entire population of Brazil seeing a doctor . Why? A network of 550,000+ hospitals and pharmacies now allow seamless out-of-town billing.
Prescription Prices Drop Like K-Pop Beats
China’s bulk drug-buying program slashed medication costs by 57% on average last year. Over 3,000 meds – including cancer and rare disease treatments – are now covered. \"It’s like Groupon, but for lifesaving drugs,\" says Zhu Weiguo, a Beijing medical insurance official.
What’s Next?
Expanding rare disease coverage
Upgrading local clinics
New medicine catalog updates in 2024
With healthcare spending hitting ¥711 billion ($98B) last year, China’s playing the long game to keep its system sustainable. Game on, global health goals!
Reference(s):
Report shows steady improvement of China's medical insurance system
cgtn.com