The historical experience of health financing in typical developed countries and its implications to China: A comparative study perspective / 中国卫生政策研究

ABSTRACT

Objectives: The purpose of this study is to summarize the historical experience of health financing in typical developed countries, in order to provide reference for China's health financing over the next 15 years.Methods: This paper uses hierarchical cluster analysis to determine the historical stage of typical developed countries similar to China in economic and social development from 2015 to 2030.Literature review is used to analyze the historical data and reform measures of health financing in typical developed countries during the similar stage.Results: The study found that the historical stage of typical developed countries that is similar to China in 2015-2030 is between the mid-or late-1970s and the beginning of the 21st century.During this period, the experience of health financing in typical developed countries mainly focused on controlling expenditures and costs, improving the health financing policy, strengthening the security system, etc.Conclusions: The similar stage research approach introduced in this paper provides a new idea and perspective to use the international experience for reference.Drawing lessons from the experience of health financing in typical developed countries combined with the Chinese context, this paper suggests the government should develop and improve diversified health financing channels, integrate and improve the health security system, and control the rapid escalation of health expenditure.