Cooperative medical insurance and the cost of care in Shandong, PR China: perspectives of patients and community members
Date
2015
Authors
Mahmood, M.
Raulli, A.
Yan, W.
Dong, H.
Aiguo, Z.
Ping, D.
Editors
Advisors
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Type:
Journal article
Citation
Asia-Pacific Journal of Public Health, 2015; 27(2):NP897-NP902
Statement of Responsibility
Mohammad Afzal Mahmood, Alexandra Raulli, Wang Yan, Han Dong, Zhang Aiguo, and Dong Ping
Conference Name
Abstract
This research was conducted to identify the cost of care associated with utilization of village clinics and membership of the New Cooperative Medical Scheme (NCMS) in 2 counties of Shandong province, PR China. A total of 397 community members and 297 patients who used the village clinics were interviewed. The average cost for primary care treatment of 1 episode of illness was about 55 yuan (about US$8). Although more than 50% of people had NCMS membership, many consider the monetary reimbursements as insufficient. The low insurance reimbursement rates and inability to pay out-of-pocket expenses compromise access to care. Delays can cause more serious illnesses with potential to overburden the secondary care at the township and county hospitals. Those rural people who have not yet enjoyed the benefits of China's economic development may not benefit from recent health care reform and finance mechanisms unless schemes such as the NCMS provide more substantial subsidies.
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Dissertation Note
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Description
Published online before print August 10, 2010
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© 2010 APJPH