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April 15, 2014

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Care homes told to clarify costs

THE owners of care homes for the elderly will be required to provide clear and comprehensive details of their pricing structures under new regulations set by local authorities.

How much private companies charge for their services is a matter for the market, but the new rules stipulate that firms must make their accounts available to the public, said Shi Xiaolin, director of the Shanghai Civil Affairs said yesterday.

The prices charged by public-sector facilities will be set by the relevant government department, she said.

“The changes to the rules will not mean an increase in the cost of nursing care, but they will ensure all charges are much clearer,” Shi said.

Homes that run at a deficit might be entitled to a government subsidy, she said, adding that seniors who suffer from dementia or a physical disability, or come from a low-income family might also be entitled to financial support.

Facilities that are not financially viable, however, will be forced to close, Shi said.

With the number of elderly citizens in Shanghai steadily rising, authorities are looking at ways to meet the growing demand, she said. The number of seniors rose 5.5 percent last year to 3.9 million and is set to surpass 6 million by 2025, the bureau said earlier.




 

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