A total of 81 healthcare practitioners received China's first-ever long-term care specialist certificates during a ceremony in Jiangsu province on April 28, establishing this newly recognized profession to meet the growing needs of an aging society.

The national certification program, developed to assist families caring for members with chronic illnesses or disabilities, aims to professionalize eldercare services while alleviating household burdens.

"The aging wave has generated enormous demand for long-term care providers," said Li Tao, deputy director of the National Healthcare Security Administration. "This profession will raise service standards, drive innovation in health industries, and enhance public satisfaction."

The competency-based program features progressive credentialing:

Level 5 (Elementary), Level 4 (Intermediate), and Level 3 (Advanced). Candidates must pass written examinations and practical simulations testing both theoretical knowledge and hands-on skills. The inaugural Jiangsu cohort achieved an 81 percent pass rate among 100 examinees ranging from age 20 to over 60.

To ensure quality control, Jiangsu authorities have implemented a 21-document regulatory framework governing examination protocols and certification management. The province plans to expand training programs while monitoring the specialists' integration into healthcare and community support systems.

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