China's Health-Care Reforms Save $55 Billion, Jiangsu Adds Assisted Reproductive Services with 80% Payout

Jul 1, 2024, 09:00 PM

China is implementing significant health-care reforms, which have reportedly saved the government 400 billion yuan ($55 billion). However, medical professionals express concerns about the new system's impact on their ability to perform their duties responsibly. In Beijing, residents can now purchase over-the-counter drugs using health insurance via Meituan and Alipay, with 300 pharmacies participating. This initiative follows similar moves in Shanghai and Guangdong province. Additionally, Jiangsu province, an eastern economic hub, has included 13 assisted reproductive medical services and related pain relief projects in its medical insurance system, with a payout ratio of up to 80%, aiming to encourage childbirth and address the declining birth rate. The inclusion was implemented yesterday.