Core Points - The core viewpoint of the article is the initiation of a pilot service for "no accompanying care" in 24 tertiary public hospitals in Shenyang, Liaoning Province, aimed at reducing the burden on patients' families [1] Group 1: Pilot Service Implementation - 24 tertiary public hospitals in Shenyang have launched a pilot service for "no accompanying care" to alleviate the caregiving burden on family members [1] - The pilot service is based on the requirements of the National Health Commission and the local government, expanding the scope of the service to meet local needs [1] - Initial pilot departments include geriatrics and orthopedics, which have high care demands, with nurses or caregivers providing standardized assistance such as meal and hygiene support [1] Group 2: Quality Assurance Measures - To ensure the quality of the "no accompanying care" service, hospitals are required to establish an internal training system for caregivers and implement ongoing supervision and management mechanisms [1]

Core Points - The city of Shenyang has launched a pilot service for "no accompanying care" in 24 public hospitals, aimed at reducing the burden on family members of patients, particularly in an aging population context [1] - The pilot service focuses on departments with high care needs, such as geriatrics, neurology, and orthopedics, and is designed to provide standardized living care services led by nurses or medical caregivers [1][2] - The service is priced at 100 yuan per day and is not currently covered by the medical insurance fund, requiring patients to pay out-of-pocket or use personal medical accounts [1] Service Implementation - Hospitals involved in the pilot have established training programs for medical caregivers to ensure quality service, covering areas such as professional skills, service quality, and infection control [2] - A regular supervision and management mechanism will be set up to monitor service quality and pricing standards across the city [2] - Future plans include expanding the service range based on the pilot experience to enhance the quality of care for patients [2]

Core Insights - The Chinese government is promoting the experience of medical reform in Sanming, Fujian, to enhance public hospital services and ensure they serve the public good [1][2] - Significant improvements in healthcare services have been reported, including the establishment of appointment-based services in 87% of secondary and above public hospitals [1] - The development of internet healthcare services has expanded, with 3,756 internet hospitals providing convenient access to medical services for residents [2] Group 1 - The State Council has established a coordination mechanism for deepening public hospital reform, with the first meeting held recently to promote the Sanming medical reform experience [1] - Over 5,500 hospitals have set up "one-stop" service centers, and more than 2,000 secondary and above hospitals have adopted multidisciplinary integrated diagnosis and treatment services [1] - 83% of tertiary public hospitals now offer day surgery services, reducing the need for prolonged hospital stays [1] Group 2 - More than 4,000 medical institutions are providing home care services through "Internet + nursing services," with over 60 service items available [2] - The number of internet hospitals has reached 3,756, facilitating access to medical services via mobile devices [2] - Last year, internet hospitals conducted 130 million consultations, significantly easing the burden of healthcare access for the public [2] - There are now over 60 Sino-foreign joint venture medical institutions operating in China to meet diverse healthcare needs [2]

Core Viewpoint - The introduction of "免陪照护服务" (no accompanying care service) in hospitals aims to alleviate the burden on families of patients who require hospitalization, providing professional care while reducing the need for family members to take time off work [1][6]. Summary by Sections Implementation of No Accompanying Care Service - The "免陪照护服务" was initiated in Henan Province following a national pilot program, starting from July 10, with the aim of addressing the challenges faced by families when a member is hospitalized [1][6]. - The service allows patients to receive care from nurses or medical caregivers based on their condition and self-care ability, with family consent [2][5]. Patient and Family Experiences - Patients have reported positive experiences with the service, highlighting the attentive care provided by nursing staff, which includes daily hygiene, mobility assistance, and basic rehabilitation exercises [2][3]. - The cost for the service varies, with "one-to-many" care priced at 135 yuan per day and "one-to-one" care at 216 yuan per day in some hospitals [3]. Professional Standards and Training - The implementation plan mandates that medical caregivers undergo professional training and obtain certification to ensure quality care, addressing concerns about the competency of caregivers compared to private hires [4][5]. - Hospitals are required to maintain a nurse-to-bed ratio of at least 0.6:1 to ensure adequate monitoring and care for patients [7]. Challenges and Public Perception - There are concerns regarding the public's acceptance of the service, with some families preferring to care for their loved ones themselves due to mistrust of unfamiliar caregivers [6][7]. - The service's integration into the healthcare system faces challenges, including staffing shortages, management costs, and the need for a robust training program for caregivers [7]. Financial Aspects and Insurance Coverage - Families have expressed a desire for the costs of the no accompanying care service to be covered by health insurance, similar to models in other regions where a portion of the costs is reimbursed [6][7]. - The financial sustainability of the service is a concern, as hospitals must balance service quality with operational costs [7].

Core Insights - The "accompanying economy" is emerging as a significant market driven by the needs of the elderly and the younger generation seeking emotional support [2][4][17] - By 2025, the market size of the "accompanying economy" in China is expected to exceed 50 billion yuan, highlighting the potential for growth in medical care and emotional support services [4] Accompanying Services - Accompanying services, such as medical accompaniment, are becoming essential for elderly patients who struggle with complex medical processes [5][7] - A report indicates that 88.54% of elderly individuals in communities face situations where family members cannot accompany them during medical visits, with this figure rising to 98.30% in nursing homes [7] Standardization and Professionalization - The Chinese Society of Welfare and Elderly Care has released the first systematic standards for elderly medical accompaniment services, covering service processes, safety protocols, and training [8] - There is a push towards standardizing and professionalizing accompanying services, including establishing certification mechanisms and service grading systems [8][12] Caregiver Shortage and Quality Issues - There is a significant shortage of qualified caregivers in China, with a projected increase in the number of disabled elderly individuals leading to rising care demands [11] - The quality of caregiving services varies widely due to a lack of standardized training, with many caregivers lacking proper qualifications [11][12] Innovative Care Models - The "no accompaniment care" model is being piloted in several cities, allowing hospitals or third-party services to take over traditional family caregiving roles [13][14] - This model aims to enhance care efficiency and clarify responsibilities, addressing the challenges posed by geographical separation between elderly patients and their families [13][14] Emotional Support Services - The younger generation is driving the demand for emotional support services, leading to the rise of "buddy culture" where individuals seek companionship for various activities [17] - Emotional support services are becoming commercialized, but the lack of industry standards raises concerns about service quality and consumer protection [17][18] Market Dynamics - The accompanying economy is creating job opportunities and new consumption patterns, but it also raises questions about service quality and regulation [18] - The balance between quality control, trust mechanisms, and operational efficiency will be crucial for companies to succeed in this emerging market [18]

Core Viewpoint - The implementation of "no accompanying care services" in hospitals aims to alleviate the burden on families of elderly patients while ensuring professional care through trained medical caregivers and nurses [1][2][3] Group 1: Characteristics of No Accompanying Care Services - The "no accompanying care" model allows patients to receive care without family members present, leading to a more spacious and orderly environment in the hospital [2][3] - Professional caregivers and nurses collaborate to provide comprehensive care, including daily activities, medication management, and psychological support [2][5] - The model is tailored to specific departments based on patient needs, focusing on areas with a high proportion of elderly patients requiring care [2][3] Group 2: Implementation and Training - Chengdu University Affiliated Hospital was one of the first hospitals to pilot this service, particularly in the neurology department, which has a high demand for family support [3][4] - Caregivers undergo extensive training, covering various aspects of patient care, including specialized knowledge for neurological conditions [4][7] - The hospital has established a selection and training process for caregivers to ensure high service quality [7][9] Group 3: Cost and Service Quality - The pricing structure for no accompanying care services is more affordable compared to hiring private caregivers, with costs ranging from 100 to 240 yuan per day depending on the level of care [6][10] - Patients can choose between one-on-one or shared care models, allowing for flexibility and cost savings [6][10] - The introduction of professional caregivers has led to increased patient satisfaction and improved service quality [9][10] Group 4: Challenges and Future Directions - Despite the positive outcomes, challenges remain, such as the need for more caregivers to meet demand, especially during peak times [9][10] - The success of the program relies on adequate nurse staffing, training, and the integration of technology to enhance service delivery [10] - There is a call for more flexible pricing models to accommodate varying patient needs and to encourage insurance coverage for these services [10]

Core Viewpoint - The implementation of the "No Accompanying Care Service" in Henan Province aims to alleviate the burden on families of hospitalized patients by providing professional care services, allowing family members to focus on their work and personal lives [1][5]. Group 1: Policy Implementation - The "No Accompanying Care Service" will be piloted in tertiary hospitals starting from July 10, 2025, focusing on departments with high nursing needs such as geriatrics, neurology, cardiology, general surgery, and orthopedics [2][3]. - The service is voluntary and requires informed consent from patients or their families, ensuring that traditional care options remain available for those who can provide accompaniment [3]. Group 2: Service Structure and Pricing - Two service models are offered: basic care at 150 yuan per person per day and exclusive care at 240 yuan per person per day, focusing on daily living assistance such as meal support, bathing, and cleaning [3]. - The plan emphasizes the importance of maintaining clear boundaries between the roles of medical staff and care providers, ensuring that care personnel do not engage in medical tasks [2]. Group 3: Professional Standards and Quality Assurance - The plan includes a robust framework for ensuring service quality, with a nurse-to-bed ratio of at least 0.6:1 in care areas, and requires care personnel to undergo training and obtain certification [4]. - Detailed service standards will be established, linking the quality of care provided by nursing staff to departmental evaluations, creating a comprehensive system of training, service, and supervision [4]. Group 4: Technological Integration and Insurance Support - The initiative encourages the development of smart wards that utilize technology for efficiency, such as intelligent calling and data collection systems [4]. - There is a push for commercial insurance products to cover the costs of the no accompanying care service, aiming to reduce the financial burden on patients [4]. Group 5: Societal Impact and Future Considerations - The reform addresses the pressing issue of family burdens associated with hospitalization, with experts emphasizing the need for a balanced approach that motivates healthcare institutions while reducing patient care burdens [5]. - Effective implementation will require strong government oversight to ensure service quality and pricing standards, as well as timely integration of insurance policies [5].

Core Viewpoint - Shandong Province has implemented a government-guided pricing for "no accompanying care" services starting July 1, aimed at alleviating the burden on family members of hospitalized patients and addressing the challenges of an aging society [2][3]. Group 1: Implementation of No Accompanying Care Services - The "no accompanying care" service will be fully available in all public tertiary hospitals in Shandong by the end of 2025, as part of a collaborative effort by multiple government departments [2]. - The pricing structure includes a charge of 150 yuan per day for caring for two or more patients simultaneously, while one-on-one care pricing is determined by the medical institutions [2][3]. Group 2: Role of Caregivers - Caregivers, distinct from nurses, are becoming recognized as professional caregivers, providing 24-hour continuous care that includes companionship, mobility assistance, and fall prevention [3][4]. - The service is based on the informed consent and voluntary choice of patients or their families, ensuring that patients can select the type of care they need [4]. Group 3: Training and Quality Control - Caregivers undergo a rigorous training program consisting of 150 hours of theoretical and practical training before being allowed to work with patients, with a requirement of 100% pass rate on internal examinations [5][6]. - The training covers not only basic skills but also specialized care techniques and emphasizes humanistic care, ensuring that caregivers are well-prepared to meet patient needs [6]. Group 4: Challenges and Adaptations - The transition to standardized yet personalized care presents challenges, particularly in balancing the need for quality care with the individual needs of patients [7][8]. - The service currently applies only to patients requiring level one and level two care, which complicates the continuity of care as patients transition between care levels [8].

Core Viewpoint - The implementation of "no companion care services" in hospitals aims to address the needs of elderly patients and their families, particularly in regions with significant aging populations, by providing professional care at a lower cost compared to traditional caregiver services [1][4][9]. Group 1: Service Implementation - The "no companion care service" allows patients to receive care from nurses or hired medical caregivers during hospitalization, based on the patient's condition and self-care ability, with the consent of the patient or family [1]. - Hospitals are prioritizing the implementation of this service in areas with a high proportion of elderly patients and a strong demand for such services [1][8]. Group 2: Patient Experience - Patients and their families have reported positive experiences with the service, noting that it alleviates the burden of constant family presence and provides professional care at a more affordable rate compared to traditional caregivers [3][4]. - For example, the cost of "no companion care" is approximately 120 to 240 yuan per day, significantly lower than the 320 yuan charged for one-on-one caregivers [4][6]. Group 3: Training and Quality Assurance - Hospitals are establishing dedicated departments to manage caregivers and ensure the quality of "no companion care" services, including professional training programs for caregivers [6][7]. - Training includes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, with many caregivers obtaining certification to enhance service quality [6][7]. Group 4: Patient Satisfaction and Outcomes - The implementation of "no companion care" has led to increased patient satisfaction, with reported satisfaction rates reaching 99% and a significant reduction in average hospital stay duration [8]. - The model has shown effectiveness in reducing hospital-acquired infections and complaints, indicating a positive impact on overall patient care [8][9]. Group 5: Future Challenges and Developments - Challenges remain in optimizing support systems and managing the demand for companion services, with ongoing efforts to improve caregiver management and resource allocation [9]. - Future plans include enhancing caregiver training and management to ensure that the service meets both professional care standards and the emotional needs of patients [9].

Core Points - The article discusses the implementation of a "no accompanying care" service in Guangdong Province, aimed at reducing the burden on families of hospitalized patients [2][3] - The service is part of a pilot program initiated by the Guangdong Provincial Health Commission and other departments, with eight cities including Guangzhou and Shenzhen participating [2] - The program has received positive feedback, with a reported patient satisfaction rate of approximately 99% since its launch in April [2] Summary by Sections Service Overview - The "no accompanying care" service allows patients to receive care from hospital-appointed caregivers, reducing the need for family members to take time off work [2] - Caregivers are recruited from the community and undergo training to meet national standards, ensuring quality of care [2] Pricing Structure - The pricing for the service is tiered based on the level of care: "one-to-three" care costs a maximum of 140 yuan per patient per day, while "one-to-two" and "one-to-one" care are priced at 180 yuan and 280 yuan respectively [2] - Patients have expressed satisfaction with the pricing, finding it more economical than having family members provide care [2] Implementation and Future Plans - The pilot program currently operates in eight specialties, with nearly 400 professional caregivers employed [2] - The Guangdong Provincial Health Commission plans to further standardize service content and quality, aiming to enhance the overall patient experience [3]