对话中国首家外资医院院长盘仲莹：作为头部医疗机构要学会思考 不怕转型带来的“短痛”

Core Viewpoint - The entry of foreign-funded medical institutions into China has not been as rapid as expected, with only two foreign-funded hospitals approved since the policy change in September last year [1][2]. Industry Development Stages - The first stage (1997-2010) involved navigating a policy vacuum, where foreign-funded hospitals had to explain their nature to regulators while adapting to local approval processes [2]. - The second stage (post-2010) saw a surge in joint-venture medical institutions due to relaxed policies, leading to a perception of healthcare as a lucrative market [3]. - The current third stage is characterized as a "cooling period," with nearly 30 private hospitals filing for bankruptcy since 2025, indicating a challenging environment for foreign and private medical institutions [3]. Challenges Faced by Foreign and Private Institutions - The survival of foreign and private medical institutions has become increasingly difficult due to the rise of public hospitals offering international services, which raises competition [3][4]. - Investment requirements have significantly increased, with foreign hospitals now needing to invest at least hundreds of millions of dollars, compared to a few million in the past [3][5]. - The demand for traditional services, such as maternity care, is declining due to low birth rates and changing societal norms, prompting institutions to pivot towards comprehensive care models [5][6]. Innovation and Adaptation - The management of Beijing United Family Hospital emphasizes the importance of continuous innovation and learning from other industries, not just healthcare [10][11]. - Collaborations with technology firms, such as Alibaba's Damo Academy, aim to leverage AI for improved diagnostic services, showcasing a shift towards integrating technology in healthcare [10][11]. - The hospital's approach to attracting top medical talent includes offering advanced equipment and a collaborative environment that encourages shared responsibility among medical staff [9][10]. Future Outlook - The hospital's management acknowledges the need for substantial upfront investment to ensure long-term viability, as foreign hospitals do not receive government funding and must rely on their own resources [11][12]. - The transition from being a follower of international models to developing unique, high-end healthcare services is seen as essential for maintaining competitiveness in the evolving market [4][11].