PUBLISHED DECISION GUIDE
Types of Hospitals in China: A Guide
An overview of the hospital landscape in China, including public, private, and foreign-run facilities.
The Chinese medical system primarily comprises public and private hospitals, along with a small percentage of personalized clinics. This guide provides an overview of the types of hospitals you may encounter in China.
Independently written English guidance based on cited public sources. Every public guide is human reviewed; it is not an official translation of the source publisher.
Overview of the Medical System
The Chinese medical system primarily comprises of public and private hospitals and a small percentage of personalized clinics. Hospitals, clinics, and dental clinics established for foreigners are also available, especially in major cities.
Both Western medical treatment and traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are practiced in Chinese hospitals, with many institutions integrating both approaches. Some facilities offer a full range of services such as operations, check-ups, and in-patient care, while smaller clinics may focus on diagnosing minor ailments.
Public Hospitals
Foreigners can receive treatment at public hospitals and clinics in China and pay the same prices as local residents. However, most public hospitals do not accept international medical insurance, and in some cases, patients may be required to post a deposit before admission to cover expected treatment costs.
Foreign-Run Hospitals and Clinics
Foreign-run hospitals and clinics, including joint ventures, offer up-to-date medical facilities and international staff who speak English or other languages, making them suitable options for expatriates. However, treatment costs in these institutions can be more than ten times the price of the same procedure at a public hospital, and are not necessarily cheaper than in the US or Western Europe. It is advisable to check in advance whether your health insurance covers treatment at these facilities.
VIP Wards
VIP wards are available in many public hospitals in major Chinese cities, providing additional services and privacy. These wards may be an option for those seeking enhanced comfort during hospitalization.
Public sources
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This guide received human editorial review. Use its public sources and review date to assess the current information boundary.
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