HWPC(SH:688799) 2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2026-01-16 00:20Core Viewpoint - The significant price discrepancies between hospital and retail prices for pediatric calcium D3 granules raise concerns about the effectiveness of centralized procurement policies and public trust in healthcare systems [1][3][8]. Price Discrepancies - Pediatric calcium D3 granules sold in hospitals can be priced at 34.93 yuan for a 14-bag pack, while the same product is available for approximately 19 yuan in pharmacies and e-commerce platforms, resulting in a price difference of 15.93 yuan [1]. - Similar price discrepancies exist for other medications, with examples showing hospital prices exceeding retail prices and vice versa [2]. Centralized Procurement and Pricing - The pediatric calcium D3 granules were included in centralized procurement in 2022, with the winning bid price set at 3.795 yuan per bag, which was later reduced to 2.495 yuan per bag in 2025 [3][4]. - Despite the centralized procurement prices, hospitals are selling the product at prices that deviate from these rates, indicating a disconnect between procurement prices and actual supply costs [3][8]. Factors Contributing to Price Differences - The price differences can be attributed to several factors, including the dynamic nature of market conditions, hidden service costs in hospitals, and the competitive pricing strategies of retail and online pharmacies [9][10]. - Regulatory gaps and the lack of real-time monitoring of drug prices contribute to the persistence of these discrepancies [10][11]. Regulatory Responses - The National Medical Insurance Administration has acknowledged these pricing issues and is working on measures to align hospital prices with those of retail pharmacies and e-commerce platforms [11][13]. - Local governments are also implementing stricter regulations to ensure that procurement prices are consistent with market prices, with penalties for non-compliance [14][15]. Future Directions - Experts suggest that a transparent pricing mechanism similar to e-commerce platforms should be established to allow for better price comparisons and competition among suppliers [17].