Utilization, cost, payment, and patient satisfaction of rehabilitative services in Shandong, China.

Objectives: China's transformation into a market-based and global economy has had dramatic health policy implications on a system that serves roughly 1.3 billion people. This global perspective is resulting in the integration of Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and western medicine for the treatment of an increasing number of morbidities. However, little research has been conducted that examines patient response to this convergence. This study researches the utilization, cost, payment and patient satisfaction with rehabilitative services received in China.

Methods: A structured questionnaire was administered to 192 patients receiving rehabilitative services in China's Shandong Province.

Results: The most frequently ordered TCM therapies were acupuncture (14.1%) and massage therapy (15.6%). The most frequently ordered western therapies were physical therapy (62.5%) and occupational therapy (6.3%). Physical therapy was considered the most cost-effective service at almost half the cost of acupuncture. Almost 85% of respondents had some form of health insurance and 90% expressed satisfaction with their therapy.

Conclusions: Healthcare providers should consider offering TCM and western medicine for morbidities requiring rehabilitative services. In a more global healthcare marketplace, the convergence of these two treatment modalities can lead to higher patient satisfaction and more cost-effective treatments.