China eases household registration restrictions for healthcare enrollment

In a significant move to enhance its healthcare security system, China has lifted household registration restrictions for enrollment in basic healthcare security programs. This policy encourages Chinese residents to enroll in healthcare security programs at places where they live or work.

According to a guideline released by the State Council on Thursday, a gradual initiative will allow elementary and middle school students, as well as preschool children who do not have hukou, or permanent household registration in places where they live to enroll in local insurance programs in their residing areas.

The guideline also stated that large cities should allow flexible employees, migrant workers and individuals in new forms of employment to enroll in local healthcare security programs.

In a notable enhancement to personal health accounts, the policy allows insured people to transfer funds to their spouses, parents and children. The new document specifies that the money will be allowed to be directed to their siblings, grandparents and grandchildren as well.

Furthermore, the document proposes incentives to encourage individuals to keep enrollment over years.

New policies will take effect starting next year, it said.