Why healthcare became so expensive in China? The transformation of healthcare financing during Chinese economic development. (1st January 2012)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Wang, Ying; Shen, Jay J.; Mei, Sun; Moseley, Charles B.; Lu, Jun; Lin, Fang; Li, Xiaohong; Chang, Fengshui; Hao, Mo
• Is Part Of: International journal of public policy. Volume 8:Number 1/2/3(2012)
• Page Start: 4
• Page End: 20
• Publication Date: 2012-01-01
• Subjects: China -- healthcare -- cost -- financing -- reimbursement -- health policy; Political planning -- Periodicals; Public administration -- Periodicals; 351.05
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 1740-0600

Abstract

Under the influence of national economic reform and development, China has changed the way that it finances healthcare from a government-based system to a more market-oriented system. China has done this without a sophisticated healthcare payment system, and this has resulted in the rapid growth of health expenditures and many Chinese not being able to access needed healthcare. This review covers the changes in healthcare financing since 1979; how these changes have happened; how they have impacted the Chinese people; and what policy and programme changes are needed to improve the current system.