✨ Big news from the Chinese mainland! 🏥 China is opening its doors even wider to the world by allowing full foreign ownership of hospitals in some major cities. 🎉
On Friday, the National Health Commission (NHC) and three other government departments released a pilot work plan that grants approval for wholly foreign-owned hospitals in cities like Beijing, Tianjin, Shanghai, Nanjing, Suzhou, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Shenzhen, and the island province of Hainan. 🌆🌴
The NHC explained that with China's booming demand for medical services and strong interest from international investors, this move aims to introduce high-level international medical resources, improve the supply of medical services, and optimize the business environment. 🌐💉
Did you know? As of 2023, China boasts over 38,000 hospitals! 😲 While public hospitals make up less than a third of this number, they account for a whopping 83.5% of patient visits nationwide. That's some serious hospital hustle! 🏃♀️🏃♂️
Since the year 2000, China allowed joint-venture medical institutions with foreign investors. Fast forward two decades, and there are over 60 foreign-invested joint-venture medical institutions across the country. This new plan is a game-changer, taking international collaboration to the next level! 🚀
But hold up! There are some important guidelines. The new plan excludes traditional Chinese medicine hospitals and prohibits foreign acquisition of public hospitals. Additionally, foreign-owned hospitals won't be performing medical activities with significant medical or ethical risks, like human organ transplantation. So, it's all about responsible growth. 🙅♂️🛑
The plan allows these hospitals to operate as general, specialty, or rehabilitation hospitals, bringing diverse medical services to the people. This could mean better healthcare options and cutting-edge treatments coming your way! 🏥✨
It's exciting to see China's healthcare sector embracing global partnerships. 🌍 Who knows, maybe next time you're traveling or doing business in China, you'll notice these new international hospitals making a positive impact! 😊
Reference(s):
China permits full foreign ownership of hospitals in key cities
cgtn.com
