| The success of the philosophy and organization of health services in the People's Republic of China is described. The practical use of paraprofessionals (barefoot doctors and midwives)provides basic health services to all members of society, and the maternal health care services and statistics on the premature birthrate are among indicators that suggest China's health status compares well with that of the West. Because each woman's reproductive status, menstrual cycle, an contraception are public record and are regularly updated, a programme of prenatal care is feasible beginning almost at conception. Newborns enter into an immunization regimen similar to that practiced in the West, and participation rates approach 100. |