Introduction

As China benefits from three decades of economic reform, a major area that is still developing is the nation’s healthcare system.

For much of the last century, China’s emphasis has been on providing a relatively universal healthcare system, targeting mass public health campaigns and state- provided ‘cradle to grave’ support. While market reforms since 1978 have     propelled much of the country’s economy into the 21st century, progress in healthcare  provision  has slowed.

In many respects, access to medical support, particularly in rural areas, has declined. Increasing costs have been met by the end-user or through voluntary insurance schemes.

It is in this context that the central government in Beijing has acknowledged the need for reform. Rather than taking the form of one all-encompassing reform plan, the government’s approach has been to evolve policy through stakeholder consultation.

The final shape of reform, in its implementation at the national, provincial, city  and rural levels, remains to be seen. However, the consultation process gives  some indications as to where the major developments are likely to be and how   the private sector can contribute to, and benefit from, such changes.

We hope you find this summary of the developments useful. Accompanying the summary, we have also identified some business opportunities in this sector which we believe may arise in China over the coming  years.