China is introducing new smart payment methods in hospitals, including facial recognition, mobile apps, one-code scanning, and credit-based systems. The initiative aims to make billing faster and more convenient for patients across both outpatient and inpatient services.
Each method targets specific needs: facial recognition helps the elderly, mobile payments support those with mobility challenges, one-code scanning integrates all payments, and credit payment allows treatment first and pay later. These steps are designed to reduce long queues and repeated waits.
Pilot programs will start in at least two cities per province by 2026, expand to all coordinated regions by 2027, and be fully adopted nationwide by 2028. Officials say this system will improve hospital management, optimize resource allocation, and enhance the overall patient experience.
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