Beijing Youth Daily:

In order to curb the epidemic, what kind of financial support and policies have the relevant departments taken? Thanks.

Li Bin:

In terms of policy support, the Ministry of Finance, the Ministry of Human Resources and Social Security, the National Healthcare Security Administration, and the National Health Commission and other departments have rolled out favorable policies or provided funds to local governments and individuals to fight the new coronavirus so as to ensure the prevention and control of the novel coronavirus outbreak.

First, patient treatment. Patients confirmed to be infected with the virus will receive subsidies from the central and local governments for their medical expenses that are not covered by insurance or medical aid. Second, subsidies for medical workers. Medical workers and other personnel involved in preventing and controlling the virus will also be subsidized and those who become infected with the virus while on duty will be compensated. Third, supply of epidemic prevention and control materials and daily necessities. The central government will also provide necessary help to local governments to purchase medical equipment and testing kits to battle the epidemic.

The Ministry of Finance has earmarked a total of 5.4 billion yuan ($769.8 million) to support local governments across the country to prevent and control the epidemic. This includes 1.5 billion yuan for Hubei province, which is the epicenter of the battle. The National Development and Reform Commission has also invested 300 million yuan from the central budget to support the construction of a new hospital in Wuhan, the capital city of Hubei province. This new hospital is designated to treat patients infected with the new virus. In addition, the Ministry of Finance and the National Health Commission spent 60.33 billion yuan in advance to support the development of basic public health services and the prevention and control of the outbreak at the grassroots level. Thanks.