On December 6, 2017, the Washington State China Relations Council convened the Brown Bag Briefing Series with an informative presentation from Jing Dipiero on, “Healthcare in China: Challenges and Opportunities” in Seattle, WA. Jing, a WSCRC Silver Member, is the founder and CEO of DPR Consulting, a firm which provides comprehensive healthcare solutions to individuals, physicians, hospitals and local governments with a special focus on China.
Having been born and raised in Beijing before relocating her career to the US, Jing has acquired an uncommon depth of understanding and keen ability to navigate within the two systems. She expertly guided the audience through a history of healthcare in China, citing various challenges and reform efforts that have shaped the present structure. Life expectancy has increased steadily, infant mortality has decreased drastically, and access to health services has broadened significantly.
However, Ms. Dipiero’s analysis of healthcare in China compared to the US revealed that the system remains rife with challenges. As per capita income of the Chinese population rises, many patients are seeking higher quality healthcare options, as exemplified in recent upsurge of “medical tourism.” Opportunities for medical professionals, investors and technologists abound throughout the country.
Jing outlined Chinese government plans to enhance the quality of care in clinics, to provide insurance and a family physician for 100% of the population, and to curb individual expenditures. Ms. Dipiero pointed out that each of these objectives will need the support of various medical industries, and explained how a knowledgeable consulting partner such as DPR can assist in navigating the unfamiliar policy landscape of Chinese healthcare to increase efficiency and generate maximum impact.
Over 25 representatives from DPR Consulting, Swedish Hospital, Wyzlink, Oncology Edge Consulting, Seattle Chinese Garden and Seattle-Chongqing Sister City Association, CREATe, SEngine Precision Medicine, Inc., Harris Bricken PLLC, Attune Healthcare Partners, Oregon China Sister State Relation Council and North America China Council attended this briefing.
Summary Author: Trudy Boothman