观察｜“生娃不花钱”引热议：四孩及以上家庭盼所有政策一视同仁

Core Viewpoint - The Chinese government is taking significant steps to support childbirth by aiming for a "no out-of-pocket" cost for childbirth by 2026, which includes enhancing maternity insurance coverage and expanding the demographic of insured individuals [1][2]. Group 1: Government Initiatives - The National Healthcare Security Administration announced plans to improve maternity insurance and long-term care insurance, with a goal of achieving "no out-of-pocket" costs for childbirth within the policy framework by 2026 [1]. - The government aims to include flexible workers, migrant workers, and new employment forms in maternity insurance coverage, and to ensure direct payment of maternity benefits to insured individuals [1]. Group 2: Challenges for Multi-Child Families - Despite the positive developments, families with four or more children face challenges such as limited maternity leave, lower maternity benefits, and workplace attitudes that may discourage larger families [3][4]. - The reimbursement for prenatal check-ups is capped at 3,000 yuan, which is significantly lower than actual expenses, leading to financial burdens for families [2][3]. Group 3: Perception and Experience of Policies - Mothers of multiple children express confusion over the government's messaging regarding "no cost" childbirth, questioning whether it refers to actual out-of-pocket expenses or includes maternity benefits [2]. - There is a perception of unfair treatment for families with four or more children, as they receive less maternity leave and benefits compared to those with fewer children, which contradicts the government's intention to promote childbirth [4][6]. Group 4: Workplace Concerns - Many women are concerned about workplace policies regarding childbirth, with some employers still adhering to outdated norms that discourage larger families despite legal changes [6][7]. - The lack of support for childcare and maternity leave in the workplace is a significant factor deterring women from having more children, highlighting the need for better public policies to support families [7].