Work

Fiscal transfers and public health services in China: a macro–micro analysis

Year: 2025
Type: article
Abstract: Introduction: This study innovatively integrates functional performance and systemic capacity dimensions to establish a comprehensive evaluation framework for public health services, addressing critical knowledge gaps in fiscal policy-health system interactions. Methods: Utilizing multi-source spatial panel data from 1,871 Chinese counties (2001-2020), we developed a novel assessment system combining structural equation modeling (SEM) and fuzzy comprehensive evaluation. Complementary analyses of 283 prefecture-level cities employed fixed-effects models with instrumental variables to examine fiscal transfer mechanisms. Results: Our findings reveal: Significant positive association between fiscal transfers and service levels. Dual-path mediation effects: Fiscal expenditure restructuring; Health spending efficiency optimization. Micro-level health equity improvements. Discussion: These evidence-based results provide policymakers with actionable insights for: Establishing performance-oriented accountability frameworks; Promoting health equity through fiscal system optimization; The proposed multidimensional evaluation system offers a replicable toolkit for global health governance assessment.
Language: English
Subfield: Finance
Open Access status: gold
Estimated APC paid: $3,801
OpenAlex ID: W4409308218
FWCI: 2.804
Cites: 25
Cited by: 3
Related to: 10