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International Patient Guide

Everything you need to know about seeking medical care in China as a foreign patient

Step-by-Step

Your Journey to Healthcare in China

A practical guide from initial research to treatment and follow-up

Step 01

Research & Preparation

Use CHINAMEDLINK to identify hospitals with international departments in your destination city. Check which languages are supported and whether your insurance is accepted for direct billing.

Verify your passport validity (6+ months)
Check visa requirements for medical visits
Gather medical records and translate to English/Chinese
Step 02

Contact the Hospital

Reach out to the hospital's international patient department directly. Most accept inquiries via phone, email, or WeChat. Request an appointment and ask about required documents.

Use the contact info from our hospital detail pages
Ask about appointment wait times
Confirm accepted payment methods
Step 03

Travel to China

Arrange your travel and accommodation. Many international hospitals are located near major transportation hubs. Some offer airport pickup and hotel recommendations for international patients.

Download WeChat and Alipay before arrival
Bring physical copies of medical records
Consider travel insurance with medical coverage
Step 04

Hospital Registration

Upon arrival, visit the international patient registration desk. Staff will guide you through the process in English or your preferred language. Bring your passport, insurance card, and medical records.

Arrive 30 minutes before your appointment
Bring your passport for registration
International departments often have separate entrances
Step 05

Consultation & Treatment

Your consultation will typically be conducted with interpretation support if needed. Doctors at international departments are often English-speaking or have dedicated interpreters. Treatment plans will be explained clearly.

Ask for written treatment plans in English
Request itemized cost estimates before procedures
Inquire about follow-up care arrangements
Step 06

Payment & Insurance

International departments typically accept major credit cards, bank transfers, and direct insurance billing. If your insurer has a direct billing agreement, the hospital will handle claims directly.

Keep all receipts and medical documentation
Request English-language invoices
Ask for a medical summary for your home doctor

Essential Information

Key details every international patient should know

Insurance

Major international insurers (Cigna, Bupa, Allianz, AXA, MSH) have direct billing agreements with many Chinese hospitals. Always confirm coverage before your visit.

Operating Hours

Most international departments operate Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM – 5:00 PM. Some offer Saturday morning clinics. Emergency services are available 24/7 at all major hospitals.

Emergency

For medical emergencies, call 120 (ambulance) or 110 (police). Most major hospitals have 24-hour emergency departments. International departments may have separate emergency contacts.

Need Personalized Assistance?

Contact us for help finding the right hospital, scheduling appointments, or navigating the healthcare system in China.