As a special group under specific historical conditions，the“barefoot doctor”is a practical exploration to solve rural healthcare problems，with historic contributions to the Healthy China initiative. This historic contribution primarily reflected the ability of “barefoot doctor” to stay rooted in the grassroots communities，serve rural populations，and accumulate valuable experience for the Healthy China initiative. The spirit of the“barefoot doctor”has provided spiritual motivation and value guidance for the Healthy China initiative. In the new era of promoting the Healthy China initiative，it is necessary to deeply explore the ideological resources of the“barefoot doctor”，activate its contemporary value，and provide positive insights for the Healthy China initiative.