Core Insights - The rise of the companion service industry in China is driven by the increasing aging population and the challenges faced by elderly individuals in accessing medical care [1][5] - The industry is characterized by a growing workforce, with many individuals transitioning from other professions to become companions [2][3] - There are concerns regarding the reliability and quality of companion services, as well as the potential for privacy issues and the need for industry regulation [6][7][8] Industry Overview - The companion service industry has emerged as a response to the difficulties faced by elderly patients who often lack family support during medical visits [1][5] - Companion services typically charge around 200 yuan per order, with prices varying based on the patient's needs and the companion's experience [3] - The industry is seeing a mix of full-time and part-time companions, with many individuals forming teams to enhance service delivery [3][5] Market Demand - There is a strong demand for companion services, not only among the elderly but also among younger individuals who are willing to pay for convenience [5][6] - Hospitals have initiated various programs to assist patients, but the availability of such services is limited, highlighting the role of professional companions in filling the gap [5][7] Challenges and Concerns - The industry faces challenges related to the perception of companions as a legitimate profession, with some viewing it as less reputable [6][8] - There are concerns about the low entry barriers for becoming a companion, which can lead to variability in service quality [6][7] - The need for industry standards and regulations is emphasized to ensure quality service and protect patient privacy [7][8] Future Outlook - Experts suggest that the industry should develop specific standards for qualification and operation to enhance professionalism [8] - There is potential for educational institutions to offer training programs for companions, which could improve service quality and industry recognition [8]

Core Insights - The emerging profession of medical companions is addressing the increasing difficulty elderly individuals face in accessing healthcare services, particularly in Shanghai where the number of certified companions has surpassed one thousand [1] - The professionalization of medical companions is hindered by a lack of regulatory standards and recognition within the national occupational classification system, leading to issues such as identity ambiguity and market disruption by unscrupulous entities [1] - The current pricing model for companion services is primarily low-cost due to the weak willingness of elderly individuals to spend, which poses challenges for establishing a sustainable business model [1] Short-term and Long-term Solutions - Short-term efforts should focus on promoting national occupational certification for medical companions and establishing nationwide service standards [2] - Long-term strategies should include talent development through specialized training programs, enhancing job security with dedicated insurance products, and expanding the companion service industry by integrating it with related services like rehabilitation equipment rental and home care [2] - The normalization of the medical companion industry is crucial, with government support to include these services in basic elderly care offerings and companies leveraging technology to improve efficiency and service quality [2]

Core Insights - The demand for accompanying medical services has surged, with a year-on-year increase of 41.83% in the registration of related companies in the first four months of this year [1][2] Registration Growth - As of now, there are 858 existing companies related to accompanying medical services in China. The registration volume has significantly increased since 2022, with a total of 386 new registrations expected in 2023, marking a year-on-year growth of 60.83%, reaching the highest registration volume in nearly a decade. In the first four months of this year, 82 new companies were registered, reflecting a year-on-year increase of 41.83% [2] Distribution by City Tier - New registrations of accompanying medical service companies this year are predominantly concentrated in second-tier cities, contributing 32.99% to the total. This is followed by new first-tier cities and first-tier cities, with contributions of 20.62% and 14.43% respectively [3] Regional Distribution - The existing companies related to accompanying medical services are mainly distributed in Northeast China, East China, and North China, accounting for 27.57%, 19.86%, and 17.52% respectively [4]

Core Insights - The 11th China International Elderly Care Services Expo showcased new technologies and products in the elderly care sector, highlighting innovations aimed at improving the quality of life for seniors [1] Group 1: Industry Trends - The expo featured over 220 exhibitors from more than 10 countries and regions, including government departments, social organizations, and brand institutions, presenting a wide range of products from traditional elderly care items like wheelchairs to specialized utensils and clothing for seniors [5] - The silver economy is creating new growth opportunities for various traditional industries, with exhibitors presenting over 200 types of elderly products, including home appliances with voice functions that are more suitable for seniors and eligible for a 30% trade-in subsidy for upgrades [7] Group 2: Technological Innovations - Various types of elderly care robots attracted significant attention, including caregiving and companionship robots, such as a robot named Xiaoli that can play Go with seniors, providing both service and emotional companionship [9] Group 3: Regulatory Developments - The first group standard for "Elderly Accompaniment Service" was released at the expo, establishing guidelines for accompaniment institutions, personnel, and processes [10][11] - The standard requires accompaniment personnel to hold health certificates and effectively communicate with seniors and their families, documenting key information during medical visits [13] - It also outlines clear regulations for critical stages of the accompaniment process, including pre-visit preparation, in-visit services, and post-visit follow-ups [14]

Core Viewpoint - The release of the "Accompanying Diagnosis Service Development Research Report (2025)" and the "Standards for Elderly Accompanying Diagnosis Services" marks a significant step towards the standardization and normalization of accompanying diagnosis services in China [1][4]. Industry Overview - Accompanying diagnosis services, which focus on patient-centered medical assistance, have evolved from a purely offline model to a more structured "online appointment + offline service" framework since their introduction in 2006 [2]. - The number of newly registered accompanying diagnosis service companies rebounded significantly in 2022, reaching 152, and is projected to increase to 203 by 2024, indicating a resurgence in market interest [2]. Awareness and Demand - Despite the potential for growth, awareness of accompanying diagnosis services remains low, with 45.3% of community respondents completely unaware of the service and only 3.51% having used it [3]. - Over 70% of respondents prefer accompanying personnel who have received professional training, highlighting a demand for quality and professionalism in the service [3]. Challenges in Development - The industry faces four main challenges: a mismatch between supply and demand, lack of industry standards, low public awareness, and insufficient professionalism among service providers [4]. - The report suggests enhancing top-level design, improving the professional system for accompanying personnel, and increasing public awareness to promote the value of accompanying diagnosis services [4]. Standardization Efforts - The "Standards for Elderly Accompanying Diagnosis Services" was developed with input from 22 organizations across various sectors, aiming to establish a comprehensive framework for service delivery [4]. - The establishment of the Accompanying Diagnosis Professional Committee by the China Social Welfare and Elderly Service Association aims to promote the standardization and normalization of the industry through initiatives like the "Morning Star" plan [5].

Core Insights - The emerging profession of medical companions, or "陪诊," has seen a surge in demand due to various societal challenges such as aging populations, urban isolation, and complex healthcare processes [1][6][12] - The industry has grown significantly, with 1,428 registered companion service companies in China, averaging 300 new companies established annually over the past three years [6][34] - The role of medical companions extends beyond mere logistical support; they provide emotional comfort and guidance through the healthcare system, often acting as temporary family members for patients [16][26][36] Demand Surge - The demand for medical companions has skyrocketed, particularly in major cities like Chengdu and Shanghai, where companions are often fully booked and have to adjust their schedules to accommodate patients [3][5][6] - During the pandemic, many patients relied on companions to navigate complex hospital processes, leading to a spike in services like medication retrieval [6][10][12] Patient Demographics - Key demographics utilizing companion services include elderly patients, individuals seeking treatment away from home, and women undergoing procedures like abortions [10][21][23] - Many companions report that their clients often feel isolated or overwhelmed, highlighting the emotional support aspect of their role [19][36] Industry Growth - The industry has seen a notable increase in the number of practitioners, with a diverse range of backgrounds among companions, including former nurses and individuals from unrelated fields [34] - The average income for companions varies, with experienced practitioners earning significantly more due to established client bases [34][36] Challenges and Controversies - The profession faces scrutiny regarding the legitimacy of services provided, with concerns about the accuracy of medical information shared by companions [3][31] - There is a lack of standardized qualifications for companions, leading to potential risks for both patients and service providers [31] Emotional Connections - Companions often form deep emotional bonds with their clients, providing not just physical assistance but also psychological support during difficult times [36][38] - The role of companions can sometimes blur the lines between professional and personal relationships, as they become trusted confidants for patients [36][38]