Big news for healthcare! 🎉 The Chinese National Health Commission has updated its guidelines, requiring top-tier general hospitals in the Chinese mainland to set up dedicated geriatric clinics. This move aims to better serve the rapidly growing elderly population and address issues like chronic diseases, geriatric syndromes, and acute illnesses.
Tertiary hospitals must now allocate at least 20 beds for geriatric care, while secondary hospitals need to provide a minimum of 10 beds. Along with these mandates, clinics are required to be equipped with essential life-support devices, including tracheal intubation tools, respirators, ECG monitors, and defibrillators. In addition, hospitals are encouraged to enhance patient care with auxiliary bathing facilities, electric nursing beds, self-transfer devices, and advanced rehabilitation equipment.
The new guidelines also stress a multidisciplinary approach. Geriatric clinics will integrate professionals from internal medicine, oncology, traditional Chinese medicine, rehabilitation, mental health, nursing, pharmacy, and nutrition. This well-rounded strategy is designed to deliver personalized and comprehensive care that meets the unique needs of the elderly.
With the Chinese mainland's population aged 60 and above reaching around 310 million (22% of all residents) in 2023, these reforms are both timely and essential. Data shows that the number of top-tier hospitals with geriatric departments surged from 4,685 in 2021 to 6,877 in 2023. Despite challenges such as a shortage of specialized professionals and low service fee incentives, authorities are optimistic. A target has been set for 80% of top and secondary-level hospitals to establish standardized geriatric departments by the end of 2027.
This significant push for modernized elderly care is not only transforming hospital services, but also paving the way for a healthier future for millions. Stay tuned as this dynamic shift in geriatric healthcare evolves!
Reference(s):
China steps up geriatric healthcare services at major hospitals
cgtn.com
