By Jin Lu

Ningbo's long-term care insurance program is providing thousands of care-dependent residents with professional in-home care while easing the burden on their families.

Since 2017, Ningbo - one of the first national long-term care insurance pilot cities - has gradually expanded coverage to 8.39 million insured residents. The program now serves nearly 50,000 people with severe functional limitations, reaching every township and neighborhood across the city. Even remote islands and mountainous areas are supported through local stations staffed by trained community caregivers.

The city has pioneered a "one hour per day" model, offering daily home visits that include 42 basic care tasks and 10 medical services at patients' bedsides. Recently, a caregiver visited a resident in Fuming Subdistrict, assisting with turning, massage, joint exercises, and hygiene. "Caring for my bedridden husband used to take up all my time. Daily visits from a professional caregiver have given me some relief," said the man's wife.

The program has also built a dedicated, professional workforce, with over 8,000 certified caregivers trained in areas such as pressure sore prevention, feeding, and psychological support.

A digital platform enhances transparency and accountability. Families can apply for care, select services, and review records directly from their phones. Caregivers must scan a code and verify their identity using facial recognition during each visit. Administrators can monitor service delivery in real time and conduct spot checks via video or follow-up calls.

Local authorities say Ningbo is continuing to expand services, including in-home bathing assistance and dementia support, ensuring long-term care remains accessible and high-quality throughout the city.