Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolution and challenges of the "Hui Min Bao" (惠民保) insurance scheme in China, highlighting its rapid growth in coverage and the increasing complexity of claims and benefits, particularly in relation to innovative drugs and treatments [3][4][6]. Group 1: Overview of Hui Min Bao - Hui Min Bao has been promoted nationwide for nearly six years, with "special drug liability" becoming a standard feature. In the previous year, it contributed approximately 1.8 billion yuan in innovative drug payments from a premium scale of less than 20 billion yuan, marking a ninefold increase from 2021 [3][4]. - The scheme faces challenges due to varying experiences among the 150 million insured individuals, with some receiving substantial claims while others struggle to meet deductibles or face reduced payouts due to pre-existing conditions [3][4]. Group 2: Regulatory Changes and Trends - The recent notification from the National Financial Regulatory Administration emphasizes the need for commercial health insurance, including Hui Min Bao, to align premium collection with coverage levels and avoid chaotic low-price competition [4][8]. - The 2026 version of Hui Min Bao is introducing a trend of "premium stratification," moving away from low premiums to better match coverage levels, with new inclusions for chronic diseases and overseas drugs [4][6]. Group 3: Expansion of Special Drug Coverage - As of 2024, 90% of Hui Min Bao projects include "special drug liability," with a total of 672 drugs covered, reflecting a 1.8 times increase since 2021. The focus remains on cancer and rare disease medications, with over 40% of the drugs being innovative cancer treatments [6][7]. - Some regions are expanding their special drug coverage to include high-value drugs for chronic diseases, with certain plans approaching the coverage levels of pure commercial health insurance [7][8]. Group 4: Pricing and Risk Management - The core of commercial health insurance is the dynamic balance between funding and benefits. The low premium model of Hui Min Bao has slowed funding growth, impacting benefit enhancements [10][12]. - The 2026 version of Hui Min Bao is adopting a risk stratification approach, allowing for differentiated pricing based on factors like age and health status, which aims to enhance fairness and adaptability in product offerings [10][11]. Group 5: Inclusion of New Citizens and Cross-Regional Medical Services - The new Hui Min Bao products are increasingly targeting healthy individuals and young people by lowering deductibles and enhancing coverage for outpatient services and common illnesses [16][18]. - Several regions are allowing the use of personal medical insurance accounts for family members and expanding coverage to include new citizens and those seeking medical services across regions [17][18].