Patient Companions Help Ease Burdens in China’s Overwhelmed Hospitals
Patient companions, or “peizhenshi,” have become essential in navigating Beijing’s overwhelmed hospitals, as families face logistical challenges in care for the elderly. These companions charge a fee to ease the burden of hospital visits, which are often complex and exhausting. The growth in their use reflects deeper issues in China’s healthcare system and the increasing demand for personal care as the population ages.
Beijing’s hospitals are chaotic and often overwhelming, pushing many patients to seek the help of “patient companions.” Tian Yigui, an 83-year-old, recently experienced this firsthand while accompanying his elderly wife to a local hospital. Here, he entrusted Meng Jia, a hired companion, with navigating the complexities of China’s health care system, which has been under financial strain and notorious for its bureaucratic procedures.
China’s hospitals are characterized by overcrowding and noise that can prove challenging for patients, particularly the elderly. This has led to a rise in the popularity of patient companions, known as “peizhenshi,” which have become an unofficial yet increasingly lucrative part of the gig economy. Many families now find comfort in hiring these companions, who help ease the stressfulness of hospital visits, including long waits and confusing procedures.
At the People’s Liberation Army General Hospital, lines stretched long, and patients had to overcome assorted check-ins, all while juggling complex digital payment codes. Amid the hustle, hospital aides guided patients through the congested lobby, while companions like Meng facilitated check-ins and payment processes for families like Tian’s.
Meng, who charges 300 yuan, approximately $40, for four hours of service, has proven to be a lifesaver for Gao Yingmin, 78, who is recovering from throat surgery. “The helpers are convenient, practical and (give us) peace of mind,” she expressed, speaking amidst the difficulties of her health condition.
The demand for patient companions has been significantly growing in recent years, fueled by advertisements on various Chinese social media platforms. Authorities are seemingly receptive to these services as they align with the government’s efforts to enhance health services available for seniors. Meng herself entered the companion field after a brief training initiative offered by Chengyi Health, a platform connecting patients with companions. Li Gang, the platform’s founder, highlighted the substantial gap in understanding required to navigate the extensive medical system, as large hospitals can house over 50 clinical departments, often perplexing patients and their families.
Interestingly, while expectant mothers also hire companions, the demographics of Chengyi’s clientele show that about two-thirds are aged 60 or older. Moreover, young individuals are increasingly recognizing this vocation as a path of greater value, as trainee Tao Yuan indicated, having left a corporate role for a more humanitarian pursuit. The pressure of caring for aging parents—especially among those raised under the one-child policy—has created a palpable demand for support, he explained.
China’s health care system has long faced challenges related to funding disparities and inconsistent medical resources, often compelling patients into cities for even minor health issues. Wang Feng, a Chinese demographics expert, noted that time constraints for working adults have exacerbated the need for assistance in caring for elderly parents. As the nation’s seniors become a larger demographic, the demand for personal care is poised to grow.
Amid struggles with overall economic growth, the “silver economy,” which encompasses products and services for older adults, has reported significant financial figures—totaling about 7 trillion yuan last year. However, potential companions like Xiao Shu, who earns a solid monthly income of 10,000 yuan but has previously refused to assist clients with challenging complexities, remind us that boundaries exist within this burgeoning market. “If something happened to him, who would be responsible for it?” he pondered, echoing concerns about the potential risks involved in such caregiving roles.
In summary, the rise of patient companions in Beijing highlights the acute challenges within China’s healthcare system, particularly for the elderly. As demand for these services grows amidst a backdrop of overcrowded hospitals and bureaucratic hurdles, the companions appear to help fill a pressing gap. Moreover, with government backing and a booming silver economy, the trend may continue as long as healthcare access remains a struggle for many. Yet, the importance of maintaining safety and accountability in caregiving roles remains a crucial consideration.
Original Source: www.arabnews.com
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