In the early 1980s, China's healthcare sector was poised for transformation. Roberta Lipson, chair emeritus of the American Chamber of Commerce in China, recognized the urgent need for advanced medical technology and took decisive action. In 1981, she founded Chindex, introducing cutting-edge medical equipment to China, significantly enhancing the nation's healthcare capabilities.
Sixteen years later, Lipson continued her groundbreaking work by establishing United Family Healthcare in Beijing, the first private healthcare facility in the country. This move marked a pivotal shift towards private sector involvement in healthcare, providing Chinese citizens with more options and higher quality care.
Fast forward to today, and China's healthcare system has seen tremendous growth and development. Lipson highlights that \"Chinese doctors in major public 3A hospitals having all the medical hardware at their disposal\" is a testament to the sector's advancement. Moreover, an impressive \"98-99 percent of the people in China are covered by some social insurance,\" ensuring widespread access to essential medical services.
The expansion of private healthcare continues to play a crucial role in meeting the diverse needs of China's population. With more opportunities emerging, the healthcare landscape is becoming increasingly robust, catering to the growing demands of patients and fostering an environment of continuous improvement and innovation.
Reference(s):
Progress of China's healthcare system from the '80s to today
cgtn.com
