China plans to launch a nationwide survey of health services from Sept. 18 to Oct. 20 this year, according to the Ministry of Health Monday.

The sample survey will cover the health situation of people interviewed, their requirements for health services, the actual use of the services and the factors affecting such use.

Health officials said the survey is expected to be conducted at the homes of selected people or through group discussions with people who will be asked about their views on health service reform, and the situation of the medical services for people in need and the migrant population.

Unlike the first two national health services surveys, which were conducted in 1993 and 1998, respectively, the upcoming survey will cover the vast western part of the country for the first time.

The officials noted that information gathered from the survey will be useful for the central government to formulate policies concerning the health services and health reform.

(Xinhua News Agency August 19, 2003)