Core Viewpoint - The healthcare journey in Guanmiao Village, located in the Dabie Mountains of Anhui Province, reflects both the challenges and improvements in medical access for elderly residents, highlighting the importance of local medical support and insurance coverage in addressing their healthcare needs [1][7][9] Group 1: Healthcare Access and Support - The village has a significant number of elderly residents, with over half of the 144 chronic disease patients being over 65 years old, indicating a high demand for healthcare services [1] - Local healthcare providers, such as village doctors, play a crucial role in offering home visits and basic medical checks, which helps bridge the gap for those who may struggle to access healthcare facilities [3][4] - The timely response from local healthcare professionals, as demonstrated in the case of Grandma Tang, showcases the effectiveness of community healthcare systems in emergencies [2][3] Group 2: Financial Challenges - Despite having medical insurance, many elderly residents face financial burdens due to high medical costs, as seen in the case of a 75-year-old woman needing surgery for a brain tumor, which costs over 200,000 yuan [7][8] - The financial strain is exacerbated by the limited income of elderly residents, who often rely on minimal savings or family support, making it difficult to afford necessary treatments [8] - The closure of local pharmacies and the inability of elderly residents to navigate medication purchases due to illiteracy further complicate their access to necessary healthcare [8][9] Group 3: Community and Emotional Support - The presence of local healthcare workers who provide not only medical assistance but also emotional support is vital for the elderly, helping to alleviate feelings of isolation and anxiety [6][9] - The community's efforts to simplify the healthcare process, such as pre-arranging hospital visits and providing clear instructions for medication, demonstrate a commitment to improving the quality of life for elderly residents [5][6][9]