In pursuit of becoming a city of healthcare, Nanyang has formed a comprehensive service network of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) for the benefit of local residents.

According to preferential policies launched recently, patients going to a third-tier public TCM hospital will be able to enjoy the reimbursement standard of a second-tier hospital. Those who transfer to a municipal TCM hospital can be spared referral formalities.

The city is also training TCM doctors and promoting skills such as cupping therapy, massage and acupuncture at grassroots level in a bid to make sure that impoverished people can get access to the medical treatment.

In addition to free physical examinations, impoverished residents are allowed a postpone payment after receiving treatment. Those forced into poverty by diseases will be registered and enjoy a higher proportion of reimbursement.

Projects such as electric acupuncture, moxibustion therapy, massage therapy of cervical vertebra, and fumigation-washing therapy are all qualified for reimbursement.

At present, there is one national key specialty, four provincial key specialties and 18 provincial characteristic specialties in Nanyang hospitals. A talent pool has also been set up with 204 famous TCM doctors included.