An Evaluation on Equity in Current Primary Healthcare Reform in China

Abstract

"Objectives: The objective of the paper is to assess equity in recent Primary Healthcare reform in China. Through a careful examination of the current efforts in promoting equity in access to basic health care services between urban and rural populations, we aim to identify problems and provide specific suggestions.

Methods: based on literature review and government reports, as well as case study of healthcare reform in Hunan province, the paper adopts the methods of empirical evaluation combined with normative analysis and interpretation.

Results: We find that the government’s efforts partly promote equity in economic and geographical accessibility yet far from sufficient. The coverage and degree of benefit of basic medical insurance has been improved yet a big gap still exists among different groups. Grassroots health providers are urgently in need of capability and efficiency building in delivering services.

Conclusions: The basic medical insurance system should be strengthened in order to narrow the gap between rural and urban residents and urban employees in particular. Health insurance subsidies and reimbursement rates for rural residents should be further increased. The essential drug system needs to be improved to ensure openness and transparency"