Big data a boon for healthcare

Recognizing big data as a potential health resource, China is set to promote a new medical service model through collaboration with the internet industry, according to a government document issued on Monday.

By 2020, a big data system should be created, highlighting a unified and interconnected public health information platform, said the guidelines issued by government agencies, including the National Health and Family Planning Commission.

"The initiative won't just help improve related public health services, but will also play a big role in economic and social development," Jin Xiaotao, vice-minister of the National Health and Family Planning Commission, said at a policy briefing of the State Council on Friday.