Healthcare, Insurance, and Medical Expenditure of the Floating Population in Beijing, China

Background: China has a large floating population created by the fast urbanization and unique hukou system. With low socioeconomic status, labor-intensive jobs, and the lack of portability of health insurance, the floating population are often disadvantageous in healthcare. However, there is often insufficient attention to healthcare of the floating population. Method: To provide an informative description of certain aspects of the floating population under healthcare, particularly including demographic characteristics, illness conditions, insurance utilization, and medical expenditure, a survey study was conducted in Beijing, China, collecting data on 437 subjects. Characteristics of the floating population and treatments of their illness conditions are examined using univariate and multivariate regression analysis. Results: Personal characteristics and healthcare of the floating population are examined in detail. It is found that the floating population has low insurance coverage and utilization rates. Multiple personal characteristics are identified as significantly associated with insurance utilization and medical expenditure. Conclusions: This study suggests the necessity of further improving healthcare and health insurance protection for the floating population. The identified significant characteristics may assist healthcare providers and other stakeholders identifying the less advantaged.