2026.06.18 15:08 GMT+8

The doctors who never leave their villages

Updated 2026.06.18 15:08 GMT+8
CGTN

Across China's vast countryside, village doctors are often the first healthcare professionals residents turn to. Some left opportunities in big cities to return home and serve remote communities. Others started as "barefoot doctors" and, through years of study and training, became qualified medical practitioners. Their dedication has earned them the trust of generations of villagers.

From routine checkups to chronic disease management and public health outreach, these grassroots healthcare workers have spent decades bringing essential medical services to rural communities.

During the 15th Five-Year Plan period (2026-2030), China will continue supporting more village doctors in becoming licensed practitioners or assistant practitioners, helping ensure better healthcare is available closer to home.

Xiong Yuanyuan, a CPC member and village doctor in Guanyang County, south China's Guangxi Zhuang Autonomous Region, measures a resident's blood pressure during a routine health checkup. /Guanyang County Health Bureau

Xiong Yuanyuan visits a villager as part of her regular community healthcare outreach. /Guanyang County Health Bureau

Jin Huaihua, a CPC member and village doctor at the Pingyu Village Clinic in Fangshan District, Beijing, sees patients at her clinic. /Beijing Municipal People's Government

Jin Huaihua measures a villager's blood pressure. /Beijing Municipal People's Government

Liu Guiqian, a CPC member and village doctor in Guangzong County, north China's Hebei Province. /China Cable Television News Network

Liu Guiqian delivers a health awareness lecture for local residents. /China Cable Television News Network

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