Healthcare · China
How to See a Doctor in China as a Foreigner: Full Steps
Learn how to register, what to bring, and when to use the international department for medical care in China.
· 6 min read
Overview of the Chinese Healthcare System
In China, the healthcare system operates on a registration-based model, known as guahao. The process can be challenging for foreigners, but it's manageable with the right information. Here’s the sequence: registration (selecting a department and doctor) → payment → waiting → consultation → further tests or medication → payment again.
The key steps are: deciding which department to visit, obtaining a patient card, and making an appointment online. International departments are available in many top hospitals, offering assistance and English-speaking staff, but at a higher cost.
Preparing Your Documents and Patient Card
Bring your original passport as it is your primary identification. If it's your first visit to a hospital, you will need to get a patient card (病历卡). This card is essential for future visits, tests, and results. It's also helpful to have a piece of paper with the name of the department you need (in Chinese) to speed up communication at the counter.
To set up your patient card, follow these steps:
- Go to the hospital's registration desk.
- Show your passport and ask for a new patient card.
- Fill out the necessary forms, ensuring you select passport as the document type and enter your passport number accurately.
Mistakes in the passport number are common, so double-check before submitting.
Making an Appointment
Most hospitals in China now require online appointments. You can make these through the hospital's official app, WeChat mini-programs, or Alipay. These platforms often have an English interface, but some may only be in Chinese.
Download and set up the following apps before your trip:
- Alipay: For payments and booking appointments. In Alipay, tap Me > Bank Cards > add card, then upload your passport photo for verification.
- WeChat: For accessing hospital services and QR code scanning. Follow China Survival Kit's step-by-step WeChat registration walkthrough to set up your account.
- AMap Global: For finding hospital locations. Search using the Chinese name of the hospital.
Appointments are usually released a few days to a week in advance, so plan accordingly, especially for popular departments.
For more detailed information, refer to the official guide on medical services for foreigners in Beijing.
Using the International Department
Many top-tier hospitals in China have an international department or VIP clinic, which offers better service and shorter wait times. These departments are generally more expensive but provide English-speaking staff and assistance throughout the process.
Consider using the international department if:
- You have limited time.
- You need English-language support.
- You require an English medical report.
Appointments in the international department can typically be made 1-3 weeks in advance. Always check the specific hospital's official website or app for the most accurate information.
Navigating the Hospital Visit
Arrive early in the morning as most hospitals schedule appointments and tests in the morning. After registering, you will need to pay for the consultation and any additional tests or medications separately.
Here’s the typical flow:
- Register and get a queue number.
- Pay the consultation fee at the payment counter.
- Wait for your turn to see the doctor.
- Follow the doctor’s instructions for further tests or medications.
- Pay for the tests or medications at the payment counter.
- Return to the doctor with the test results or medications.
Always ask for electronic copies or printouts of your medical records and test results, especially if you need them for future reference or to take back home.
Special Considerations for Dental and Health Checkups
Dental clinics and health checkup centers often have simpler and more straightforward processes compared to general hospitals. These services are usually booked directly through the clinic or center, and the process is less complex.
If you are specifically seeking dental or health checkup services, consider the following:
- Contact the clinic or center directly to book an appointment.
- Check their website or call to confirm the required documents and any pre-appointment procedures.
- Ensure you have your passport and any relevant medical history documents.
For more detailed information, refer to the official guide on medical services for foreigners in Beijing.
Pre-Trip Preparation
Before you travel, ensure your phone is set up with the necessary apps and services:
- Alipay: Download and set up Alipay. In the app, go to Me > Bank Cards > add card, then upload your passport for verification. Verification can take up to 72 hours, so do this well in advance.
- WeChat: Register and set up WeChat. Follow China Survival Kit's step-by-step WeChat registration walkthrough to complete the setup.
- AMap Global: Download AMap Global for navigating and finding hospital locations. Use the Chinese name of the hospital for accurate search results.
- Entry Card: Fill out the entry card online before your trip. Be cautious of phishing websites and only use the official portal. Refer to the National Immigration Administration's warning on phishing sites for more information.
For more details on setting up WeChat Pay, see China Navigators' guide on WeChat Pay for foreigners.
Emergency and Contact Information
In case of an emergency, here are the key contact numbers:
- National Emergency Medical Services: 120
- Police: 110
- Fire Department: 119
- National Health Hotline: 12320 (mainly in Mandarin)
These numbers are national and can be dialed from anywhere in China. For more detailed information, refer to the official guide on medical services for foreigners in Beijing.
What it looks like
Frequently asked
Do I need to bring my original passport to the hospital?
Yes, your original passport is required for registration and to obtain a patient card.
Can I make an appointment without a patient card?
No, you need a patient card for the first visit. You can get one at the hospital's registration desk.
How far in advance should I make an appointment?
It's best to make an appointment 1-3 weeks in advance, especially for popular departments.
Is the international department worth the extra cost?
Yes, if you need English-language support, have limited time, or require an English medical report.
What should I do if I need emergency medical help?
Dial 120 for emergency medical services, 110 for police, and 119 for fire department.
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