What influences satisfaction with rural medical insurance in China?

Given its population, China is experiencing considerable challenges as its government grapples to ensure access to healthcare for all citizens, including low-income groups, like rural citizens. Towards this aim, the new rural cooperative medical insurance system (NRCMIS) pools funds for in- and outpatient costs incurred by rural citizens. Despite its benefits, there is limited research on citizens’ perceptions of this scheme. Rural citizens were surveyed to determine the factors that influence their satisfaction with the NRCMIS (n=740). Results suggest their satisfaction is influenced by: NRCMIS policies; the quality and value of appointed medical institutions; and their demographics. This study identifies lessons for governments responsible for national healthcare systems, particularly within highly-populated nations