China vows to punish harmful practices in medical sector

The government will strengthen efforts to rectify harmful practices in the medical sector, Li Bin, head of the National Health and Family Planning Commission (NHFPC), said Monday.

Li said at a meeting that the commission will support and cooperate with judicial authorities in investigating bribery related to medicine purchases and sales, improve the blacklist system for businesses and individuals that offer bribes and crack down on related behaviors through punishment that may include criminal charges or the revocation of qualifications.

Li's remarks came after revelations of alleged bribery and tax-related violations committed by GlaxoSmithKline (GSK) China. Four senior executives from the company are being held by police over their alleged involvement.

Police said some of the company's senior executives are believed to have colluded with affiliated companies to offer large bribes to push up drug prices and expand sales.

Li said authorities will establish a credibility system for medical staff and strengthen efforts to punish those who take bribes.

Li also called for deepening healthcare reform in order to prevent such behaviors.