Problems and Countermeasures on Fund-raising System of Expanded Program on Immunization in China

Abstract

Objective National Immunization Program belongs to a government behavior with social welfare and public goods.But shortage of government input on national immunization program for a long-time limits future progress and places the program at risk of slipping backward.According to relevant study results,immunization program depends on fiscal decentralization and the government input accounts for less than 1/3 of total program financing.About 65% financing of immunization program relies on cost-recovery(revenue).Operation of immunization at township and village level depends on revenue mainly.The model of excessive fiscal decentralization and over-reliance on revenue results in development unbalance and growing inequities in access to service.Revenue not only increases the parents,burden,but also decreases service quality.The probelem leads the immunization program to slip back.The Ordinance on the Management of Vaccine and Immunization confirms the responsibilities of the government at all levels financing for national immunization program.So the government at all levels should provide enough money for the program.Central and provincial governments should provide further support for EPI work in poor areas and ensure financing for immunization service providers instead of user fee.