Hospitals launch new nursing aide service

Pilot program announced last week brings big relief to family members

China has launched a pilot program at hospitals in deeply aging regions, offering patients the option of relying on nurses and related workers rather than family members or private caregivers for round-the-clock care.

In China, caring for hospitalized patients who have difficulties performing daily activities is traditionally the responsibility of relatives — which often leads to their fatigue and stress — or self-hired caregivers, who can be either costly or lack sufficient training.

The pilot project, announced in a notice released by the National Health Commission last week, is aimed at addressing these issues as China's population continues to age rapidly and an increasing number of people require round-the-clock care.