On July 11, 2017, China's State Council introduced bold plans to immediately revolutionise medical education to achieve the Healthy China 2030 targets. Medical schools are asked to admit more, higher calibre students, and provide better quality teaching that is accredited by the Chinese Medical Doctor Association. After 5 years of medical school, graduates will enter a 3-year standardised residency programme at the start of specialisation. New 5+3 doctors must demonstrate adequate competencies, confirmed by examination, before a nationally recognised certificate is issued. Once in practice, distance-learning will support life-long professional development. For doctors in China, the reforms herald a rising professional status and opportunity for greater leadership, with commensurate mobility, salary, and responsibilities.

(Comment: This is said to be the most important directive since medical reform was accelerated in 2009, and will reshape the delivery of care in China.)