Abstract

The objective of the article 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 healthcare services between urban and rural populations, we aim to identify problems and provide specific suggestions. The method we used was based on literature review and government reports, as well as case studies of healthcare reform in Hunan province; this article adopts the methods of empirical evaluation combined with normative analysis and interpretation.

We have found that the government’s efforts to promote equity in economic and geographical accessibility are currently 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.

We conclude that 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 also needs to be improved to ensure openness and transparency.

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