Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the evolving landscape of China's healthcare system, particularly in relation to foreign patients seeking medical services, and addresses concerns about potential resource competition between domestic citizens and foreign visitors [1]. Group 1: Foreign Patients in China's Healthcare System - China's medical institutions adhere to principles of fairness, regulation, and transparency when treating foreign patients, with unified pricing for domestic and foreign patients [3]. - Special medical services for foreigners are regulated to ensure they do not exceed 10% of total services in public hospitals, maintaining a balance between public welfare and diverse needs [4]. - The majority of foreign patients in China are long-term residents, such as expatriates and students, who often participate in the national health insurance system, thus not "taking advantage" of local resources [4]. Group 2: International Medical Competition - The global cross-border medical service market features three competitive models: technology-driven, marketing-driven, and cost-effective models, with countries like India and Thailand leading in cost-effectiveness [5][6]. - China's healthcare sector is moving away from low-cost competition, as its GDP per capita exceeds $12,000, leading to increased labor costs and a shift in the perception of healthcare services [6]. Group 3: Challenges in International Insurance Certification - A significant barrier for Chinese medical institutions in entering the global market is the lack of international commercial insurance certification, which is essential for attracting foreign patients [8]. - The complexity of international insurance certification includes hospital evaluations, insurance management system certifications, and payment process certifications, with the hospital evaluation being the most critical [8][9]. - The Chinese government has restricted public hospitals from pursuing certain international certifications, leading to a focus on domestic standards like CIHA, which are more aligned with public hospital operations [9]. Group 4: Role of Private Hospitals - Private hospitals are emerging as key players in China's international medical service sector, with the Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone serving as a notable example [10]. - Despite the success of Boao Lecheng in attracting domestic patients, it has yet to establish a strong reputation for treating foreign patients, indicating a need for further development [11]. Group 5: Future Directions for China's Healthcare Industry - The article suggests that China's healthcare sector should focus on three main areas to enhance its international competitiveness: leveraging policy advantages for innovative medical services, improving local certification systems for international recognition, and strengthening the capabilities of private healthcare institutions [13].