Free health checkups reach high-altitude communities in Xizang

On a crisp April morning, villagers, monks, and nuns in Namling county, Xizang autonomous region, gathered at their activity center to participate in the annual health checkup, an event symbolizing community care and well-being.

At an altitude of 4,100 meters, mobile medical teams conducted a range of services, including blood pressure readings, ultrasounds, and screenings for chronic diseases.

Since 2013, Xizang has prioritized free health checkups as part of efforts to improve public healthcare. Supported by an annual subsidy of 100 yuan ($14) per person, the program has completed 22.41 million checkups, achieving near-universal coverage.

By 2025, the subsidies had risen to 164 yuan, with additional investments in mobile diagnostic vehicles and clinic upgrades targeting remote areas. For seniors aged 65 and above, the subsidy is even higher, reaching 200 yuan per person per year.

The initiative emphasizes early disease detection and prevention, with screenings focusing on conditions like hypertension, diabetes, and altitude-related illnesses. Tailored programs for the elderly, women, and children are reducing maternal mortality and increasing long-term disease management.

Monasteries also benefit from these efforts. For monks like Phurbu from Dragkar Monastery, consistent health checkups have significantly improved well-being. "Regular screenings allowed me to detect and manage hypertension early," he said.

Xizang's proactive approach underscores its commitment to delivering equitable healthcare across diverse communities.