On September 13, the National Health Commission issued a notification about the 2024 Basic Public Health Services, detailing its key interpretations. We had the opportunity to speak with a representative to delve into the details and implications of this new directive.

Can you elaborate on the importance of the increased per capita subsidy for basic public health services in 2024?

The government, led by the Central Party and the State Council, is placing a heightened focus on enhancing public health services. In 2024, we’ll see a 5 yuan increase in the per capita subsidy for basic public health services, bringing it to a total of 94 yuan. This increase in funding is aimed at broadening coverage for vulnerable populations, including the elderly and those with chronic conditions like hypertension and type 2 diabetes. Additionally, we’re prioritizing screenings for cervical and breast cancers among rural women. Our goal is to deepen our service offerings and improve health services for various groups, notably children aged 0-6, pregnant women, and individuals with severe mental disorders. We also plan to introduce weight management initiatives and bolster health education for both urban and rural residents.

What significant changes are we seeing in public health services for 2024 as opposed to previous years?

In 2024, our focus will be on enhancing services that improve community health experiences. We are broadening our service offerings, placing special emphasis on managing chronic conditions such as hypertension and diabetes, while adding respiratory disease prevention, particularly for chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). This will include tailored health services for seniors aged 65 and older.

Furthermore, we aim to improve service quality by instituting categorized health services for elderly individuals and chronic disease patients, which will include increasing the frequency of health check-ins to monitor their conditions more closely. Community health education will be intensified, especially concerning weight management for at-risk groups. We are also leveraging technology to facilitate personal access to electronic health records.

Why is it critical to include health services for COPD patients in basic public health services?

Research shows that COPD is among the most common chronic respiratory diseases in China, following hypertension and diabetes. It represents a serious public health challenge that necessitates our public health interventions to also encompass services for COPD patients. This initiative aligns with the goals set forth at the 20th National Congress and the emphasis on health during the Third Plenary Session.

Additionally, the “Healthy China Action Plan (2019-2030)” underscores the need for early screening and comprehensive management of high-risk groups, which we aim to achieve through this service expansion. Since 2020, grassroots capacity in respiratory disease prevention has grown significantly, enhancing our ability to manage these conditions effectively.

With the introduction of the “Weight Management Year” initiative, how will public health services tackle weight management for residents?

Weight management is a pivotal aspect of our public health services. Through this initiative, we intend to promote healthy eating, balanced nutrition, and regular exercise via extensive outreach campaigns. Personalized guidance and interventions will be provided for key demographics, including children aged 0-6, pregnant women, seniors, and individuals with chronic conditions.

How will health services be customized for older adults and those with chronic diseases?

For older adults undergoing health screenings, any identified abnormalities in blood pressure or blood sugar levels will result in their immediate enrollment in chronic disease management programs. Seniors facing weight challenges or dealing with existing conditions will receive enhanced follow-up care and health education as part of our strategy.

For patients with chronic diseases, we will strictly follow national public health service guidelines to guarantee effective management and care. Those experiencing unstable conditions or serious complications may require more frequent follow-up visits. Moreover, we encourage local programs to deliver integrated care for patients with multiple chronic conditions, utilizing technology to streamline service delivery and ease the burden on healthcare professionals.

What are the new performance evaluation requirements for this year?

This year, we aim to strengthen the role of performance evaluation by modernizing evaluation methods and integrating advanced technologies. There will be a focus on transparent oversight, expanding online evaluation processes, and ensuring that funding management is closely aligned with health outcomes and the effectiveness of projects. This will provide an objective assessment of how public health services are impacting the community.