The number of family doctor groups has grown to 279 with 898 doctors who have contractually served 414,919 people for free in Lhasa, capital of southwest China’s Tibet Autonomous Region since 2016, when family doctors began signing contracts to work in the city, according to information from the Lhasa Municipal Health Commission.

It is reported that current contracted patients mainly suffer from chronic diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes, tuberculosis, disabilities, and mental illnesses. These doctors also mainly serve elderly people aged over 65, children aged 0-6, pregnant women, and poorer people. Family doctors provide on-site services at least once a quarter or according to individual needs. After signing a contract, according to the agreement, the doctors provide targeted services including preventative healthcare, testing for chronic diseases, telephone consultations, home visits, dietary guidance, health education, and regional hospital referrals.

Editor:Yanina