Hainan Province is taking significant steps to make childbirth more accessible and less burdensome for expectant mothers. Fu Shunmei, a new mother, was thrilled to discover that her expenses for labor pain relief at the First Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University were largely covered by insurance, easing her financial worries.
“Now I only have to pay around 300 yuan (about $42) for what should have cost me 2,000 yuan,” Fu shared with a relieved smile. “It’s a huge saving that really takes the pressure off.”
The hospital is among the pilot medical institutions in the southern island province to offer labor pain relief, now covered by health insurance. In August, Hainan joined many other regions across China in adding suitable labor pain relief to the health insurance reimbursement list.
“The majority of costs incurred during childbirth can be covered by the medical insurance fund,” said Ye Yun, a researcher at the Hainan Institute of Medical Security. “The expansion of this initiative directly benefits pregnant women as it significantly reduces medical expenses.”
Since the inclusion of labor pain relief in medical coverage, the number of women opting for the procedure in Hainan has doubled, according to the Hainan Women and Children’s Medical Center. This figure is expected to rise further as more women choose pain management, making childbirth a less daunting experience.
In October, the State Council issued a directive outlining 13 targeted measures to improve childbirth support services, expand childcare systems, enhance support in education, housing, and employment, and foster a birth-friendly social environment. Notably, suitable labor pain relief and assisted reproductive technology services will be included in the list of medical procedures eligible for insurance reimbursement.
A 2022 study by the National Health Commission revealed that China’s adoption rate for labor pain relief was 30 percent, significantly lower than the 80 to 90 percent observed in developed countries. Factors such as high patient costs, a shortage of anesthetists, and the need for additional hospital staff and resources have contributed to the lower rates.
“The move can help improve the childbirth support system and optimize population development strategies,” Ye Yun told Xinhua. “The program aims to encourage more patients to choose labor pain relief, reduce postpartum depression, and promote family harmony to foster a childbirth-friendly society.”
Ye added that hospitals should also be encouraged to allocate additional resources to support this service.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
