Red Cross Shenzhen would officially launch a special fund for medical treatment at the beginning of December, an association spokesperson said.

The fund targets the least privileged in the city. People who could not afford medical expenses, were eligible to apply for help, the spokesperson said.

Chronic diseases would not be covered by the fund because of the lack of fund sources. Only medical emergencies would be covered.

Zhao Lizhen, secretary general of Red Cross Shenzhen, estimated at least 50 million yuan (US$6.1 million) a year was needed for the fund to function efficiently. Another 50 million yuan would be needed to help people in need.

About 20 million yuan has been raised so far, partly from public lotteries and partly from a government subsidy.

“The channel for raising funds needs to be widened,” said Zhao.

Individuals and companies were welcome to donate money to the fund from now on, Zhao said.

All public donations and fund expenditure will be published regularly, for accountability and transparency.

The Red Cross in many other cities such as Shanghai, Xiamen and Zhuhai, have already set up special medical funds. A fund established by Red Cross Zhongshan has so far been the most influential.

The Zhongshan Municipal Government organizes 10,000 people in a charity parade every year, to raise money for the Red Cross Fund. The fund-raiser started 17 years ago, and has so far raised more than 300 million yuan. Millions of Zhongshan citizens and many companies take part in the charity parade every year, donating tens of millions of yuan.

Hong Kong has been the most successful in this area with more than 20 charity funds having been established.

“Hong Kong and Zhongshan are examples we are trying to learn from,” said Zhao Lizhen.

The municipal governments of Shanghai and Zhuhai were the initiators and the main sponsors of their funds, Zhao said. After the funds were launched, public donations were called for.

Medical costs for permanent residents in Shenzhen are partly covered by their medical insurance, with the highest reaching 200,000 yuan.

Those who are not insured and living below the poverty line are eligible to the civil affairs bureau for an allowance.

However, non-permanent residents are exposed when they seek medical treatment, which is generally too expensive for them.

(Shenzhen Daily November 17, 2004)