China builds world's largest medical service system

China has established the world's largest disease prevention and control system and medical service system, head of the National Health Commission Lei Haichao said at a press conference held by the country's State Council Information Office (SCIO) on Thursday.

The system, designed for rapid response, efficient infectious disease monitoring and early warning, has contributed to many achievements in health and medical development during the period covered in the 14th Five-Year Plan (2021-2025).

China has continued to promote nationwide health campaigns, strengthened primary-level health governance, and built a four-tiered prevention and control network spanning the central, provincial, municipal and county (or district) levels.

The health literacy rate among residents rose from 23.2 percent in 2020 to 31.9 percent in 2024. The government now provides immunization services covering 15 diseases, while premature mortality from major chronic diseases has been on a steady decline. Incidence rates of infectious diseases such as tuberculosis, hepatitis B and HIV/AIDS have continued to fall or remained at low levels.

By the end of 2024, the total number of medical institutions nationwide had reached 1.09 million. More than 90 percent of residents were able to access the nearest medical service point within 15 minutes. Meanwhile, the country's health workforce has continued to expand, reaching 15.78 million by the end of last year.

China has remained committed to openness and cooperation, committing to building a global community of health for all. The country has provided medical assistance to other developing nations for over six decades, dispatching medical teams to 77 countries and regions.

Average life expectancy in China hit 79 years in 2024, with eight provinces reporting an average life expectancy of over 80 years.

(Cover photo via VCG)