The China Health Culture Association was set up in Beijing on Tuesday, with Vice Health Minister Chen Xiaohong nominated as head.

The new association, which comes under the National Health and Family Planning Commission, will research medical and healthcare culture and organize cultural and social activities to aid the development of the nation’s healthcare.

"The association aims to bridge the healthcare and cultural sectors and enhance mutual exchange and understanding," said Chen at the launch.

He encouraged culture sector workers to deepen their understanding of China's healthcare industry and health workers to come up with more cultural works which could help improve doctor-patient relationships and promote social harmony.