China will further expand its coverage of basic medical insurance to pave the way for more affordable health care over the next five years.

The country is pushing to raise the ratio of expenses for medical treatment covered by insurance to above 70 percent. The government is also looking to slash the costs of essential drugs for patients. Other reforms include expanding cooperation between public hospitals and local clinics to create improve basic health care services. Incentives are also being supported for medical staff to encourage their retention at local clinics.