Chongqing - Recently, Southwest China's Chongqing Municipality has launched an action plan to enhance the quality of family doctor contracting services. The plan targets over 33% family doctor coverage for the entire population and 73% for key groups by the end of 2023.

Key groups include the elderly, pregnant women, young children, people with disabilities, and patients with chronic conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and severe mental disorders.

The family doctor system, already adopted in over 50 countries and regions, has significantly improved health outcomes, reduced medical costs, and efficiently utilized healthcare resources. While China's approach to family doctor services is still evolving, the mature systems in nations like the United Kingdom, the United States, Germany, and Australia offer valuable insights and models for development.

One of the examples is the UK's National Health Services (NHS), established in the mid-20th century, offering universal coverage and services based on need, funded through national taxation, and free at the point of use. A unique feature of the NHS is the mandatory registration with a family doctor as a prerequisite for accessing free medical care.

Despite variations in their healthcare and insurance systems, family doctor contracting services are common in the United States, Germany, and Australia. These nations mandate that all residents covered by social health insurance or holding commercial health insurance must engage in a family doctor contract, facilitating the first diagnosis and referral system.

On December 1, local residents consulted about various matters at the family doctor signing office of the Xiantao Community Health Service Center in Yubei District. (Photo/ Cui Li)

The role of family doctors in China differs from the concept prevalent abroad; they are primarily tasked with public health responsibilities rather than focusing solely on individual family health management.

"There's a common misconception about family doctors. They aren't private or exclusively house-call doctors," according to the person in charge of the Chongqing Municipal Health and Wellness Commission, "Home visits are just one part of their services, mainly for those who can't physically come to the clinic."

The official added that family doctors include general practitioners, specialists, rural doctors, and retired clinicians. Chongqing has 8,770 family doctor teams with 26,900 medical staff, providing diverse services under the family doctor contract.

Moreover, A transparent and accessible process for residents to register with a family doctor was outlined, with information accessible at community health centers. The family doctor teams actively promote their services within their jurisdictions, encouraging on-site contract signings and conducting regular community outreach.

After signing up, residents will have access to ten services, including primary medical care, health management, and priority in scheduling appointments, referrals, and outpatient services.

Dr. Xie explained, "Residents with issues like colds, fevers, or uncontrolled blood pressure should consult their family doctor." She mentioned that after residents sign a contract, she invites them to a WeChat group. 

Dr. Xie added, "I answer their queries and share health care tips in this group. I also make house calls for follow-ups for those with difficulty moving around."

Chongqing is determined to enhance the quantity and quality of family doctor services. Plans include integrating experienced retired physicians into the system and launching "smart family doctor contracting" services, combining traditional and telemedicine approaches to provide comprehensive care.