Ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis included as outpatient special diseases covered by urban basic medical insurance in Xi'an

（April 27, 2016, Xi'an) Xian Janssen Pharmaceutical Ltd. announced that, as of 1 April of this year,  outpatient use of Remicade® (infliximab injection) by patients with ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis will be included in the scope of management of outpatient special diseases covered by basic medical insurance for urban workers and residents of Xi’an.

Ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis are autoimmune diseases. Without timely diagnosis and treatment, these diseases may cause loss of motor function and disability, thus greatly affecting patients’ quality of life and ability to work. 

Rheumatoid arthritis and usually manifests as symmetrical and persistent joint swelling and pain, often accompanied by morning stiffness.  Rheumatoid arthritis may attack at any age, although 30-50 years of age is the peak age range for onset.  Rheumatoid arthritis is one of the main causes of a loss of ability to work and disability in the Chinese population,  making early detection, early diagnosis and early treatment particularly important for employed patients with rheumatoid arthritis.

Ankylosing spondylitis mainly involves the spine, and may also invade hip joints, peripheral joints and other abarticular organs and tissues, such as the eyes, gastrointestinal tract or skin. Experts suggest that patients under 40 years of age should seek treatment at the Department of Rheumatology as soon as possible if they develop low back pain and morning stiffness that are aggravated at night and do not improve after rest but are mitigated after activity, and if symptoms persist for more than 3 months. 

This latest adjustment of basic medical insurance in Xi'an will effectively reduce financial burdens borne by insured patients and their families, and can help patients receive sustained and effective treatment and improve their quality of life.

It has been reported that, beginning 1 April, there will be no deductible for outpatient use of infliximab by patients with ankylosing spondylitis and rheumatoid arthritis. 70% of all medical expenses related to the provision of basic medical insurance will be paid by basic medical insurance funds for urban workers, with the remaining 30% paid by individuals; for unemployed urban residents, 60% of expenses will be paid by insurance, and 40% by individuals. 

For more information, please consult: 
Announcement：Notice of Xi’an Human Resources and Social Security Bureau on Adjusting Issues Relating to the Urban Basic Medical Insurance Treatment in Xi’an 
http://www.xahrss.gov.cn/news/tzgg/9210.htm
Announcement：Beginning April 1, Xi’an will adjust its medical insurance and maternity insurance benefits
http://www.xahrss.gov.cn/news/zwyw/9214.htm

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Please consult: 
Du Ying
Xian Janssen Pharmaceutical Ltd. 
Tel: 010-5821 8323
Mobile: 15801387162
Email: ydu11@ITS.JNJ.COM