Red Cross Shenzhen
would officially launch a special fund for medical treatment at the
beginning of December, an association spokesperson said.
The fund targets the least privileged in the city. People who
could not afford medical expenses, were eligible to apply for help,
the spokesperson said.
Chronic diseases would not be covered by the fund because of the
lack of fund sources. Only medical emergencies would be
covered.
Zhao Lizhen, secretary general of Red Cross Shenzhen, estimated
at least 50 million yuan (US$6.1 million) a year was needed for the
fund to function efficiently. Another 50 million yuan would be
needed to help people in need.
About 20 million yuan has been raised so far, partly from public
lotteries and partly from a government subsidy.
“The channel for raising funds needs to be widened,” said
Zhao.
Individuals and companies were welcome to donate money to the
fund from now on, Zhao said.
All public donations and fund expenditure will be published
regularly, for accountability and transparency.
The Red Cross in many other cities such as Shanghai, Xiamen and
Zhuhai, have already set up special medical funds. A fund
established by Red Cross Zhongshan has so far been the most
influential.
The Zhongshan Municipal Government organizes 10,000 people in a
charity parade every year, to raise money for the Red Cross Fund.
The fund-raiser started 17 years ago, and has so far raised more
than 300 million yuan. Millions of Zhongshan citizens and many
companies take part in the charity parade every year, donating tens
of millions of yuan.
Hong Kong has been the most successful in this area with more
than 20 charity funds having been established.
“Hong Kong and Zhongshan are examples we are trying to learn
from,” said Zhao Lizhen.
The municipal governments of Shanghai and Zhuhai were the
initiators and the main sponsors of their funds, Zhao said. After
the funds were launched, public donations were called for.
Medical costs for permanent residents in Shenzhen are partly
covered by their medical insurance, with the highest reaching
200,000 yuan.
Those who are not insured and living below the poverty line are
eligible to the civil affairs bureau for an allowance.
However, non-permanent residents are exposed when they seek
medical treatment, which is generally too expensive for them.
(Shenzhen Daily November 17, 2004)
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