CGI深度 | 长护市场失灵的挑战和对策——基于信息不对称的视角

Core Viewpoint - China is facing a long-term challenge of rapid population aging, particularly with an increase in the elderly population and the demand for long-term care services, which will significantly impact economic growth and family dynamics [5][11][28]. Group 1: Long-term Care Demand and Economic Impact - The increase in long-term care demand may lead to a decline in overall household consumption and an increase in precautionary savings [7][14]. - Long-term care needs may distort family labor supply decisions, resulting in reduced labor market participation and human capital loss among the younger generation [15]. - The rising demand for long-term care could lead to inefficient allocation and use of medical resources and fiscal funds [16]. Group 2: Insufficient Development of Long-term Care Services - The long-term care service market in China is underdeveloped, characterized by a shortage of caregivers and low wages [29][30]. - The average wage for long-term care workers is significantly lower than that of other caregiving professions, indicating a wage suppression phenomenon [39][40]. - A substantial portion of elderly individuals, particularly those with mild disabilities, do not receive any form of care, highlighting the market's development potential [30][33]. Group 3: Market Failure and Information Asymmetry - The buyer monopoly theory fails to explain the underdevelopment of the long-term care service market, as there are numerous service providers [8][50]. - Information asymmetry is a critical factor contributing to low wages and supply shortages in the long-term care market, affecting both pre-service and post-service quality assessments [8][55]. - The lack of a public mechanism to convey quality information exacerbates the issue of information asymmetry, leading to reduced willingness to pay for care services [8][55]. Group 4: Lessons from OECD Countries - The experience of OECD countries in developing long-term care markets provides valuable insights, such as establishing quality information disclosure mechanisms and improving caregiver compensation through insurance payment leverage [9][64]. - Expanding the coverage and depth of long-term care insurance can enhance the payment capacity of families, thereby increasing the demand for market-based care services [64].