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Why healthcare became so expensive in China? The transformation of healthcare financing during Chinese economic development

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Listed:
  • Ying Wang
  • Jay J. Shen
  • Sun Mei
  • Charles B. Moseley
  • Jun Lu
  • Fang Lin
  • Xiaohong Li
  • Fengshui Chang
  • Mo Hao

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.

Suggested Citation

  • Ying Wang & Jay J. Shen & Sun Mei & Charles B. Moseley & Jun Lu & Fang Lin & Xiaohong Li & Fengshui Chang & Mo Hao, 2012. "Why healthcare became so expensive in China? The transformation of healthcare financing during Chinese economic development," International Journal of Public Policy, Inderscience Enterprises Ltd, vol. 8(1/2/3), pages 4-20.
    • Handle: RePEc:ids:ijpubp:v:8:y:2012:i:1/2/3:p:4-20
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    Cited by:

    1. Xiaohong Li & Christopher Cochran & Jun Lu & Jay Shen & Chao Hao & Ying Wang & Mei Sun & Chengyue Li & Fengshui Chang & Mo Hao, 2015. "Understanding the shortage of village doctors in China and solutions under the policy of basic public health service equalization: evidence from Changzhou," International Journal of Health Planning and Management, Wiley Blackwell, vol. 30(1), pages 42-55, January.

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