China plans to launch a nationwide survey of health services
from Sept. 18 to Oct. 20 this year, according to the Ministry of
Health Monday.
The sample survey will cover the health situation of people
interviewed, their requirements for health services, the actual use
of the services and the factors affecting such use.
Health officials said the survey is expected to be conducted at
the homes of selected people or through group discussions with
people who will be asked about their views on health service
reform, and the situation of the medical services for people in
need and the migrant population.
Unlike the first two national health services surveys, which
were conducted in 1993 and 1998, respectively, the upcoming survey
will cover the vast western part of the country for the first
time.
The officials noted that information gathered from the survey
will be useful for the central government to formulate policies
concerning the health services and health reform.
(Xinhua News Agency August 19, 2003)