Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the emergence and challenges of "online nursing" services in China, highlighting the growing demand for home care among the elderly and disabled populations, while also addressing the barriers to widespread adoption and utilization of these services [4][20]. Development of Online Nursing Services - The "online nursing" service was officially introduced in February 2019 with a pilot program launched by the National Health Commission in six provinces, focusing on elderly and disabled individuals [5]. - By January 2021, the service expanded nationwide, with over 3,000 providers participating [5]. - In Ningbo, the service volume reached 52,000 home visits in 2023, with an expected increase to 94,000 in 2024, reflecting an over 80% year-on-year growth [7]. Market Dynamics and Service Models - The online nursing service has developed into two main models: public hospital-based and platform-based services. The former is provided by hospital nurses during their off-hours, while the latter is operated by third-party companies that offer more flexible service options [8][9]. - The service primarily targets vulnerable groups, particularly the elderly with disabilities, who often face difficulties accessing traditional medical care [11]. Challenges in Adoption - Despite high demand and supportive policies, the service faces low participation from nurses, with only two out of 18 nurses in a trial hospital in Changsha engaging in the service [15]. - Factors contributing to low participation include heavy workloads, lack of financial incentives, and safety concerns for nurses providing home care [15][16]. Economic Barriers - The pricing structure for online nursing services varies significantly, with public hospital services costing between 300 to 500 yuan per visit, while platform-based services can range from 200 to over 1,000 yuan, often without insurance coverage [16][17]. - The lack of integration into national health insurance systems limits accessibility for low-income elderly individuals, exacerbating the issue of affordability [16][18]. Future Outlook - The introduction of the National Long-Term Care Insurance Service Project Directory in September 2025 aims to address payment challenges and promote the widespread adoption of online nursing services [18]. - The article emphasizes that the success of online nursing services hinges on the establishment of a robust payment system and the integration of these services into existing healthcare frameworks [20].

Core Insights - The rise of "online nurses" offers a convenient solution for patients needing home care services, but faces challenges in widespread adoption despite strong demand and supportive policies [1][20] Policy and Development - The "online nurse" service was officially introduced in February 2019 with pilot programs in six provinces, focusing on elderly and disabled patients [1][2] - Guangdong province quickly implemented a plan that included nine cities in the Greater Bay Area, integrating basic medical services into insurance coverage, setting a precedent for other regions [2][19] - By January 2021, the service expanded nationwide, with over 3,000 medical institutions offering more than 60 types of essential care services [2] Market Growth and Demand - In Ningbo, the service saw significant growth, with home care visits increasing from 52,000 in 2023 to 94,000 in 2024, reflecting an over 80% year-on-year growth [4] - Approximately 45 million elderly individuals in China are disabled or cognitively impaired, with 90% requiring home care, indicating a substantial market for online nursing services [10] Service Models - The online nursing service operates under two main models: public hospital-based and platform-based, each with distinct operational characteristics and regulatory compliance [8][9] - Public hospital models utilize hospital staff for home care, while platform models leverage third-party companies to connect nurses with patients, offering more flexible service options [8] Challenges in Adoption - Despite high demand, the service struggles with low nurse participation due to heavy workloads in hospitals and concerns over income stability and career advancement in platform models [14][15] - Safety concerns for nurses, particularly female staff, when providing home care services contribute to low engagement [16] Economic Barriers - The pricing structure for online nursing services varies significantly, with public hospital services often costing between 300 to 500 yuan per visit, while platform services can range from 200 to over 1,000 yuan, limiting access for low-income elderly patients [16][18] - The lack of comprehensive insurance coverage for these services further exacerbates the financial burden on families, hindering widespread adoption [17][19] Future Outlook - The introduction of a national long-term care insurance service project in September 2025 aims to address payment challenges and enhance the viability of online nursing services [19] - As the aging population grows, the demand for home care services is expected to increase, positioning online nursing as a critical component of the healthcare system [20]

Core Viewpoint - The "Internet + Nursing Services" initiative, launched by the National Health Commission in 2019, aims to provide home healthcare services to vulnerable populations, but faces challenges such as low nurse participation and public awareness [1][2]. Group 1: Service Implementation and Challenges - The pilot program for "Internet + Nursing Services" has expanded nationwide, focusing on elderly and disabled individuals who require home care [1]. - Despite the urgent demand for services, the lack of insurance coverage for home nursing care leads to high out-of-pocket costs, making it unaffordable for many families [1][2]. - Public awareness of the service is low, with only 1 out of 10 surveyed patients being aware of its existence, indicating a significant gap in communication and outreach [1][2]. Group 2: Safety and Regulatory Concerns - Nurses face safety risks when entering unfamiliar environments, including potential violence and data privacy issues, with current regulations lacking clarity on responsibilities and liabilities [2][3]. - The absence of unified policies and standards for service delivery and safety regulations hampers the widespread adoption of "Internet + Nursing Services" [3]. Group 3: Recommendations for Improvement - Suggestions include establishing a regional service network through third-party companies to ensure quality and oversight of home nursing services [4]. - The implementation of a long-term care insurance model could provide financial support and regulatory standards necessary for the service's success [4]. - Recommendations also include creating a "positive list" and "negative list" of nursing services tailored to local conditions, along with safety measures for nurses [4].

Core Viewpoint - The "Internet + Nursing Services" initiative, particularly the "on-demand nurse" model, has gained traction since its pilot launch in 2019, addressing home care challenges for elderly and disabled patients, though it faces awareness and participation issues among nurses and patients [1][2][3]. Group 1: Service Implementation and Structure - The "on-demand nurse" service in Qingdao integrates various stakeholders, including government, enterprises, and medical institutions, to facilitate its rollout [1][2]. - A comprehensive service platform named "Kanghong Medical Care" has been established to manage appointments, resource allocation, and service evaluations, ensuring efficient service delivery [2][3]. - As of now, the "Kanghong Medical Care" platform has registered 21,000 users and over 2,000 nurses, offering more than 70 types of nursing services [3]. Group 2: Service Demand and Challenges - The service has seen significant demand, with 56,000 patient assessments and 20,000 nursing service orders completed, benefiting thousands [3]. - Despite positive feedback, the service's popularity is hindered by low awareness among potential users and a limited number of participating nurses [4][5]. - The cost structure, including service fees and material costs, is perceived as higher than traditional hospital care, and many services are not covered by insurance, limiting broader adoption [6][10]. Group 3: Talent and Quality Assurance - The entry requirements for becoming an "on-demand nurse" are stringent, necessitating a minimum of eight years of clinical experience and specific qualifications [7][8]. - A three-tiered admission system ensures that only qualified nurses provide home care services, enhancing service quality and safety [8]. - The integration of on-demand nursing services with hospital operations is designed to avoid conflicts, allowing nurses to manage both in-hospital and home care responsibilities effectively [9].