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Frequently Asked Questions

Practical answers about hospital search, specialist review, medicine information and travelling to China for care.

Patient information

Frequently Asked Questions

Clear practical answers for international patients planning healthcare in China.

Do I need a visa to travel to China for medical treatment?
Visa requirements depend on nationality and length of stay. Many nationalities have short-stay visa-free access, while longer treatment may require an invitation letter from the hospital and an appropriate visitor visa. Check the latest policy with the nearest Chinese embassy before travel; our team can help prepare hospital appointment documentation.
Will doctors and hospital staff speak English?
Use the language filter in our hospital directory. Private international hospitals generally have English-speaking staff, and many leading public hospitals operate international departments. Professional interpretation can be coordinated when needed; confirm language support before booking.
Do hospitals in China accept international health insurance?
Many private and international hospitals work with major international insurers and may offer direct billing after pre-authorization. Public hospitals usually require payment first and reimbursement afterward. Always confirm coverage and billing arrangements with both the hospital and insurer.
What is JCI accreditation and why does it matter?
Joint Commission International is an independent accreditation organization that evaluates patient safety and care processes against international standards. JCI status can help international patients identify facilities with established systems, but it should be considered alongside specialty strength and physician experience.
How do I make an appointment with a hospital?
Private hospitals commonly accept phone, email or online bookings. Public hospitals often use official WeChat accounts or international departments. Our team can coordinate the appointment after reviewing the diagnosis, timing, language needs and medical records.
What should I bring to my hospital appointment?
Bring your passport, insurance documents, recent medical records and imaging, current medication list, payment method and the local address and contact details for your stay. Carry original files when the hospital requests them.
Is healthcare in China safe for international patients?
China has many high-volume Grade 3A public hospitals and international facilities with strong specialty teams. Safety depends on the hospital, department, condition and treatment plan, so select providers using verified information and clinical review rather than ratings alone.
How much does medical treatment cost in China?
Costs vary widely by diagnosis, hospital type, tests, treatment, room level and length of stay. China may be more affordable than some markets for comparable services, but only a hospital-specific plan after record review can provide a useful estimate.
Can I receive Traditional Chinese Medicine treatment?
Many hospitals offer Traditional Chinese Medicine services such as herbal medicine, acupuncture, moxibustion and rehabilitation. TCM may be used independently or alongside conventional care when clinically appropriate; discuss interactions and suitability with qualified clinicians.
What number should I call in a medical emergency in China?
Call 120 for an ambulance in mainland China. If possible, ask a Chinese speaker, hotel staff or local contact to help communicate the location and symptoms. This website and its message services are not emergency channels.
Patient Guide

Medical Travel to China: 12 Key Steps

From your first questions to continuing care at home.

Stage 1

Discover & Connect

Understand your options and find the right contact.

  1. Why consider care in China?

    Explore hospital information and the care options relevant to your needs.

  2. Research & Contact

    Find reliable information and confirm who will handle your inquiry.

Stage 2

Medical Review & Travel

Prepare your records and confirm arrangements before travelling.

  1. Medical Intake

    Share the requested medical history and reports through an agreed secure channel.

  2. Preliminary Plan & Estimate

    Ask the receiving clinical team for a provisional plan and an itemized cost estimate.

  3. Visa Arrangements

    Confirm entry requirements and any supporting documents needed for your visit.

  4. Travel to China

    Coordinate travel dates, flights and accommodation after your plans are confirmed.

Stage 3

Arrival & Treatment

Keep your hospital, transport and clinical arrangements coordinated.

  1. Airport Transfer & Hospital Arrival

    Confirm any pickup arrangements, local transport and the correct hospital campus.

  2. Registration, Consultation & Tests

    Complete check-in and the assessment or tests requested by your clinical team.

  3. Treatment & Recovery

    Follow the care and recovery plan agreed with your treating clinicians.

Stage 4

Payments & Insurance

Clarify financial arrangements early, before committing to care.

  1. Payment

    Confirm accepted payment methods, deposits, fees and receipts with each provider.

  2. Insurance

    Check coverage, pre-authorization and whether direct billing or reimbursement is available.

Stage 5

Follow-up at Home

Agree how care will continue after you return home.

  1. Follow-up

    Arrange discharge records, follow-up appointments and coordination with your local clinician.

Plan ahead: This is a planning overview, not a fixed timeline. Confirm visa requirements, costs and insurance before booking or travel, even though payments and insurance are shown as a separate stage. Services and arrangements depend on your hospital, insurer and individual circumstances.

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