China has made great strides in improving its healthcare system in recent years, but the cost of health insurance can still be a concern for many residents. In this article, we will take a closer look at the different types of health insurance available in China and the costs associated with them.
One of the main types of health insurance in China is the Urban Employee Basic Medical Insurance (UEBMI) program, which is mandatory for all urban residents who are employed by a company. The cost of this insurance is typically split between the employer and employee, with the employee contributing around 5% of their salary and the employer contributing around 20%. This insurance covers a wide range of medical services, including hospitalization, surgery, and prescription drugs.
Another type of health insurance in China is the Urban Resident Basic Medical Insurance (URBMI) program, which is mandatory for all urban residents who are not covered by the UEBMI program. This includes self-employed individuals, unemployed individuals, and retirees. The cost of this insurance is typically borne by the individual, and ranges from around RMB 800 to RMB 1,200 per year. This insurance also covers a wide range of medical services.
Rural residents in China are covered by a different type of health insurance program called the New Cooperative Medical Scheme (NCMS). This program is voluntary, but is heavily subsidized by the government. The cost of this insurance is typically around RMB 100 per year, and covers a wide range of medical services.
In addition to these mandatory and voluntary insurance programs, there are also a number of private health insurance options available in China. These policies are typically more expensive than the government-funded options, and may not cover as wide a range of medical services. However, they can provide additional benefits such as faster access to specialized medical care and higher reimbursement rates.
In conclusion, the cost of health insurance in China varies depending on the type of insurance and the individual’s circumstances. However, with a range of options available and subsidies and mandatory coverage, the cost of healthcare is still affordable for most Chinese citizens.