Group 1 - The core issue of retaining young medical talent after their training remains unresolved, despite various incentives such as tuition waivers and financial subsidies [1] - The "public-funded medical students" program is gaining attention, with local health commissions offering substantial financial incentives to attract medical talent back to their hometowns [1][2] - The service requirements for "public-funded medical students" typically mandate a return to their hometown for a minimum of six years post-graduation, raising concerns about job satisfaction and career development opportunities in rural areas [1][7] Group 2 - Two top counties in Jiangsu, Suzhou, are implementing targeted funding programs for high-achieving medical students, with financial support based on academic performance and a commitment to work in local healthcare for six to ten years [2][5] - The funding plans in Taicang and Zhangjiagang focus on specific medical specialties, with substantial financial support provided to students, including one-time grants and housing subsidies [5][6] - The local governments are responding to the "siphoning effect" of nearby major cities by enhancing their healthcare resources and attracting medical talent to prevent further loss of skilled professionals [3][4] Group 3 - The national landscape for "public-funded medical students" shows a predominance of programs aimed at training general practitioners for rural areas, with a limited focus on high-level talent [6][9] - Recent policy changes in some regions, such as Anhui and Guangdong, allow for greater flexibility in the career paths of directed medical students, including opportunities for further education and job mobility [8][9] - Despite high enrollment rates for directed medical students, retention in rural healthcare settings remains a challenge, with only about 8% of graduates staying in their assigned positions after their service period [9]