The Ministry of Health yesterday set off on a three-month inspection tour of the country's major hospitals that have drawn most complaints from patients.

Ministry spokesperson Mao Qun'an said at a press conference the move was aimed at strengthening the supervision and management of these hospitals.

The move will target their service quality and day-to-day operations, in addition to seeking feedback from patients.

Apathy among medical workers, unnecessary medical examinations, costly drugs and complicated procedures were cited by patients as the main problems, a survey by the portal Sohu has found.

"This is an opportunity for major hospitals to reflect on misdeeds ... The hospitals and the inspection results will be made public in November," Mao said.

Due to the lack of doctors and well-equipped clinics at a basic level in many urban areas and the countryside, most people turn to major hospitals for care.

(China Daily September 11, 2007)