Family doctors help 'better manage' health

Li and his wife were among the first residents to sign up with the family doctor system. The health information, such as medical history and details of allergies, of residents who sign up is recorded.

Over the years, Shanghai health authorities have worked to improve the family doctor system. For example, residents with chronic conditions can obtain prescriptions at local community health centers instead of having to visit large hospitals. Family doctors work as residents' health management experts, reminding them of how to control chronic conditions and providing free health checks.

The family doctor system has expanded to all communities across the city, with more than 10 million residents signing up.

Data from Shanghai Social Investigation Research Center showed that more than 92 percent of residents said they don't have difficulty finding a family doctor when they are ill, with the number of residents who are satisfied with family doctors' attitude reaching nearly 96 percent.

In addition to signing a contract with a community-based family doctor, residents can also sign a contract with a district-level and city-level hospital.

"This is an upgrade to the family doctor system, which aims to better meet the needs of residents," said Wu Jinglei, director of the commission, which said that about 1 million residents have also signed contract with hospitals.

"The family doctor system allows us to receive high-quality medical services in a more convenient way. It helps us better manage our health," said Shen.

In addition to people aged 60 or above, the system is expected to greatly benefit children, addressing illness prevention, vaccinations and treatment of common diseases, Wu said.