Abstract
The National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL) is a key component of the current government-led insurance policy to provide access to basic medicines in mainland China; yet NRDL coverage is limited due to public budgetary constraints and new, innovative medicines are often excluded. This paper explores the potential role of commercial health insurance as an optional approach to financing medicines excluded by the NRDL. The current status of commercial health insurance (CHI) in Mainland China is reviewed and we discuss proposed changes that may be needed to develop an effective and sustainable commercial insurance program to provide the Chinese population with better access to innovative medicines not covered by NRDL.
Highlights
Funding the increasing demands for access to health care is a constant topic for health policy globally
This paper explores the potential role of commercial health insurance as an optional approach to financing medicines excluded by the National Reimbursement Drug List (NRDL)
Numerous changes are expected and there is a great opportunity for all stakeholders to be involved, including further growth in the commercial health insurance (CHI) and pharmaceutical industry as well
Summary
Funding the increasing demands for access to health care is a constant topic for health policy globally. With a strong commitment from the central government including budget allocation, the China Healthcare Reform Blueprint, published in April 2009 by the State Council, planned to expand the basic medical security system to provide coverage to all residents in both urban and rural areas (China healthcare reform, 2012). Since this blueprint was published, nearly $18.5 billion USD has been allocated by the Chinese government at all levels to boost the government health insurance programs throughout the country.
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