| Objective: To explore the evolving trends in the needs for rehabilitation services in China, review the current supply of these services, and provide data support and policy recommendations for improving the rehabilitation service system. Methods: Utilizing multi-source data, this study systematically examines the trends in the size of China’s elderly population and the disabled elderly population. It also analyzes prevalence trends for various types of disabilities and four major chronic diseases (hypertension, diabetes, chronic respiratory diseases, and cancer). Furthermore, the study investigates trends in the number of rehabilitation institutions and professionals, as well as the current utilization of rehabilitation services among disabled and elderly populations. Results: The population in need of rehabilitation services in China continues to grow. While the supply capacity of rehabilitation services has increased, significant gaps remain: the allocation of qualified rehabilitation professionals falls considerably short of recommended levels, basic rehabilitation services for persons with disabilities are not yet fully covered, and the utilization rate of rehabilitation services among the elderly remains low. Conclusion: China’s rehabilitation service system is concurrently facing a triple challenge: surging need, a severe shortage of qualified professionals, and inefficient service utilization. Future system improvements must prioritize resolving these structural mismatches. Strategic priorities should include a paradigm shift from broad coverage to targeted accessibility for all key groups, bridg-ing the high-quality talent gap, and promoting innovative models. These concerted efforts are essential to systemically enhance the efficiency of the rehabilitation service system and advance the strategic goal of universal health coverage. |
