The Integrated Medical and Elderly Care Model in China: Development, Challenges, and Future Directions

Abstract

This study explores the development, challenges, and future directions of China’s integrated medical and elderly care model, focusing on the evolving process of combining medical and nursing services. The research aims to understand the origins, current trends, and regional variations of this model, analyzing how it has been implemented across different regions of China. The study investigates key factors influencing the model’s development, including policy, economic, social, and cultural aspects, and examines their impact on the effectiveness and sustainability of integrated care. Using a mixed-methods approach, the research involves a comprehensive review of existing literature, policy documents, and case studies from various regions, complemented by interviews with healthcare professionals, policymakers, and elderly care providers. The study sample includes representatives from medical institutions, nursing homes, and government agencies.

The findings reveal significant advantages of the integrated model, such as improved care coordination and resource utilization, but also highlight major challenges such as inadequate talent training, funding issues, service quality concerns, and low social acceptance. The paper offers recommendations to address these challenges, including policy reforms, investment in workforce development, and initiatives to enhance public awareness and acceptance. This research provides valuable insights into the integrated medical and elderly care model in China and offers practical suggestions for its future development, contributing to the sustainable development of elderly care and improving the quality of life for the aging population.