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TCM overhaul is in the works
By Cai Wenjun |
July 23, 2010, Friday
|
Print Edition
Print Edition
SHANGHAI is promoting a shake-up in the traditional Chinese medicine sector.
More TCM pharmacies are expected to offer in-store clinics with licensed doctors while experienced TCM doctors are being encouraged to open private clinics.
The central government banned TCM pharmacies from hiring doctors to offer medical consultation and services in 2001 since many didn't have professional qualifications. Some also abused the position to sell medicines and medical appliances.
In 2007, the government allowed trials in some cities after issuing new rules for clinics in TCM pharmacies.
Shanghai reopened pilot programs for such services last year.
"Shanghai will set up a city-wide network consisting of TCM hospitals and clinics, TCM departments in other hospitals and community TCM service to meet growing demand," said Shen Yuandong, vice director of the Shanghai Health Bureau. "TCM is welcomed by the public for its rehabilitation effects, disease prevention and low costs."
A three-year plan (2010-2012) to develop the TCM sector was released by the city government yesterday.
TCM services are now offered at 23 state-owned hospitals and 303 clinics in the city.
All comprehensive hospitals and community hospitals now have TCM departments.
TCM covered about 15 percent of out-patient and emergency service and 10 percent of hospitalization service last year in the city.
The government will provide more subsidies and allow patients to use their medical insurance to pay a larger proportion of TCM expenses in an effort to promote effective therapies in rural areas and community hospitals.
The government will also adjust the pricing of some TCM therapies to promote its long term development.
As one example, five acupuncture sessions will now cost 55 yuan (US$8), up from 35 yuan, officials said.
More TCM pharmacies are expected to offer in-store clinics with licensed doctors while experienced TCM doctors are being encouraged to open private clinics.
The central government banned TCM pharmacies from hiring doctors to offer medical consultation and services in 2001 since many didn't have professional qualifications. Some also abused the position to sell medicines and medical appliances.
In 2007, the government allowed trials in some cities after issuing new rules for clinics in TCM pharmacies.
Shanghai reopened pilot programs for such services last year.
"Shanghai will set up a city-wide network consisting of TCM hospitals and clinics, TCM departments in other hospitals and community TCM service to meet growing demand," said Shen Yuandong, vice director of the Shanghai Health Bureau. "TCM is welcomed by the public for its rehabilitation effects, disease prevention and low costs."
A three-year plan (2010-2012) to develop the TCM sector was released by the city government yesterday.
TCM services are now offered at 23 state-owned hospitals and 303 clinics in the city.
All comprehensive hospitals and community hospitals now have TCM departments.
TCM covered about 15 percent of out-patient and emergency service and 10 percent of hospitalization service last year in the city.
The government will provide more subsidies and allow patients to use their medical insurance to pay a larger proportion of TCM expenses in an effort to promote effective therapies in rural areas and community hospitals.
The government will also adjust the pricing of some TCM therapies to promote its long term development.
As one example, five acupuncture sessions will now cost 55 yuan (US$8), up from 35 yuan, officials said.
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