A Critical Analysis Of China’s Health Reform

2008 will see the introduction of China's new health reform and policies. This editorial gives an overview of the woes plaguing the health care system such as low medical manpower and resources versus high user demand, poor medical facilities and distribution networks in rural areas, and escalating personal expenses. Also highlighted are adverse policies and a lack of proper standards for medical administration, private hospitals, retail market, health insurance schemes, and inconsistent controls that challenge the whole medical infrastructure. A summary of the previous health care system's adjustments and proposed drafts since the start of China's reform is provided to show the government's attempts to address these pressing issues. (Click here for more)