[News] AXA Partners with China’s Boao Lecheng to Pioneer Next-Gen Medical Insuran

HONG KONG – AXA China Region Insurance Company (Bermuda) Limited has formalized a strategic partnership with the Hainan Boao Lecheng International Medical Tourism Pilot Zone Administration. The collaboration aims to develop innovative medical insurance models leveraging Lecheng’s advanced healthcare ecosystem, enhancing cross-border medical access for international policyholders.

Established in 2013 with State Council approval, the Boao Lecheng Pilot Zone operates as China’s only medical special zone, benefiting from unique policies facilitating accelerated approvals for international treatments, pharmaceuticals, and medical devices. Since its inception, it has attracted leading global institutions to introduce over 150 cutting-edge therapies – including solutions for rare diseases and cancers – years ahead of broader availability in China. A joint project with China Biotech Services Holdings Limited to advance Boron Neutron Capture Therapy (BNCT) exemplifies the zone’s commitment to next-generation medical innovation.

"This partnership enables AXA to integrate breakthrough healthcare solutions into our insurance offerings," stated Janet Lee, Chief Life and Health Insurance Officer of AXA Hong Kong and Macau. "We’re creating pathways for customers to access Lecheng’s licensed medicines and advanced technologies while developing sustainable medical-insurance models with stakeholders."

Bridging Healthcare Systems

Concurrently, AXA Hong Kong and Macau launched "AXA Health Concierge" – a health management platform addressing critical pain points in cross-border care. Its "Green Medical Pass" feature provides priority access to a network exceeding 2,000 healthcare providers and 500+ specialists across 30 disciplines in Hong Kong and Mainland China. This responds to Hong Kong’s strained system, where specialist wait times can exceed two years, and reflects growing demand: Shenzhen alone recorded over 700,000 consultations for Hong Kong residents in 2023.

"Post-pandemic cross-border medical engagement is accelerating," noted AXA’s health leadership. "The platform connects policyholders with timely, diverse treatment options across both regions."

Catalyzing Medical Tourism

AXA’s China-focused commercial insurance marks a pivotal step in addressing international patients’ primary concern: seamless payment coverage for high-value care in China. Industry analysts anticipate this will prompt more global insurers to enter the market, significantly boosting convenience for overseas patients seeking specialized treatments.

For those requiring China’s premium medical services, REBIO GROUP facilitates access to AXA-insured top-tier institutions. "We strategically match patients with leading Chinese hospitals covered by AXA insurance based on clinical needs," a REBIO spokesperson confirmed. "Whether seeking treatment from renowned medical teams or establishing institutional partnerships, we recommend first exploring our cross-border healthcare services before contacting our professional team."

This convergence of international insurance infrastructure and China’s progressive medical zones signals the country’s emergence as a destination for global health innovation.