Implementation progress and effect of National Essential Public Health Services Program in China

As one of the main tasks of the health care system reform in 2009, the National Essential Public Health Services Program has been implemented for nearly ten years. The level of services and capabilities in grassroots clinics have been improved, and the health benefits have gradually emerged. Regional disparities, urban-rural disparities, and gaps between populations are gradually narrowing. With the development of China′s economy and society, National Essential Public Health Services Program is facing new opportunities and challenges in its implementation process. As a study under the National Essential Public Health Services Program Adjustment and Evaluation Project of the China National Health Development Research Center, based on data and literatures as well as reports relevant to the program, this paper analyzed the progress and achievements of the National Essential Public Health Services Program, explored important problems and challenges in the implementation and put forward the corresponding recommendations for a better implementation of the program.