19-Jan-16 Philippines Vice President Jejomar Binay has criticized the government’s health program, saying its health policies had been an additional burden to the poor instead of helping them. Citing a report from IBON Foundation, a spokesman said PhilHealth members were still shelling out money for confinement, medicine and other medical needs, defeating the purpose of PhilHealth membership. [image: The Standard]

30-Dec-15 Bolivian President Evo Morales has announced investment of USD1.70 bn in the hospital sector as part of the 2016-2020 Social & Economic Development Plan. Four level-4 hospitals are planned, located in Cochabamba, Tarija, La Paz, and Santa Cruz, and specialising in oncology, cardiology, gastroenterology, and neurology respectively. Morales also confirmed the development of a universal healthcare system. [image: Plan Canada]

24-Dec-15 China's public insurance coverage is far less than adequate with low reimbursement rates – patented medicine and use of high-end medical devices are usually not covered. These gaps, together with China’s effort to boost investment in private healthcare insurance, have opened up attractive opportunities for foreign insurance companies, as the sector grows at over 40% annually. [image: China Briefing]

21-Dec-15 Australia's doctors lobby has warned the government not to allow health funds to price insurance based on factors such as age and lifestyle, while attacking "junk" policies that don't cover common procedures. Government budgets are under strain and surging costs have put pressure on premiums, prompting a federal review into private insurance and other reviews of the health system. [image: Andrew Meares / The Age]

14-Dec-15 Chinese consumers spent RMB65 bn (USD10 bn) buying medicines, healthcare products and services on Alibaba’s Chinese retail sites in 2014, up 63% from a year earlier. In addition, sales of nursing care services grew 205% on Singles’ Day, while sales of health insurance increased 432% on Alibaba’s sites, including the huge Taobao and Tmall marketplaces. [image: International Supermarket News]