Healthcare and Health Insurance in China

Summary: The quality of medical care in China is generally considered to be good, although it is not on par with the medical care available in the United States. Emergency services in China are generally reliable and efficient, and ambulances can be called by dialing 120.

How are healthcare services China?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in China, they replied:

"Healthcare services in China are provided by both private and public entities. Private healthcare providers include hospitals, clinics, and primary care units. Public healthcare services are largely free of charge and are usually provided through public hospitals, clinics, and health centers. Quality of public healthcare has improved over the past decade, but due to financial constraints there is some variation in the quality of care available. Foreign residents in China have access to government-run hospitals, but the wait times for service may be longer than for Chinese citizens. Expats in China typically use both private and public healthcare providers, as well as international insurance plans, to provide comprehensive medical coverage," wrote one expat.

"It is IMPERATIVE that you speak Chinese or else you need to take someone who is FLUENT in Chinese as interpreter. Some doctors speak English (or rather Chinglish) and communication is critical in receiving appropriate medical care. Also, be aware that the average Chinese person most likely will not have the medical vocabulary, so unless you have a medical interpreter communication will still be challenging, but it will be better than nothing," commented one expat who moved to Shenzhen.

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What are medical services in China like?

When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in China, they replied:

"Medical services in China are fairly extensive and provide a range of health care services, from primary care to specialty, surgical, and emergency services. Chinese medical facilities are typically well-equipped and staffed with trained, qualified professionals and follow modern medical practices and standards. Patients in China can expect to receive accessible, quality care from both traditional Chinese medicine practitioners and Western-style medical providers. Cost of services vary according to the region and facility, but are generally affordable for the average Chinese citizen," wrote an expat living in China.

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Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in China?

"Health care and health insurance in China can be expensive, depending on the level of coverage and services desired. Healthcare services range from basic or public health services, to private hospitals and specialty services. In some cases, the cost of health insurance can be relatively high, due to the fact that certain services and treatments may not be covered by basic insurance plans, or due to the fact that insurance companies may charge higher premiums for certain types of care. Additionally, certain services may only be available to those with private health insurance. Still, healthcare in China is available at affordable rates, where it is possible to purchase basic health insurance or access basic healthcare services at minimal cost," said an expat in China.

"Men in China over 55 and woman over 50 do not qualify for National Healthcare, so employers have to pay for private insurance. However, the coverage is comprehensive. You do need to get prior approval from the insurance company, but that is to be certain you go to the proper medical facility.," commented one expat living in Shenzhen, China.

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What are emergency services like in China?

When we asked about emergency services, members in China wrote:

"Emergency services in China are generally of a high standard. To call for an ambulance, dial 120 on any telephone from a domestic line, or dial the operator's number and ask for assistance, no matter where you are located in China. Generally, the operator will provide you with instructions on how to proceed. You may also need to provide your exact location and will be given an ambulance code to let them know in which dispatch district you require help. Both Chinese and English speaking operators are available to take your call," said an expat in China.

"In addition to a number of smaller local clinics., there are 2 BIG hospitals in Shenzhen. The main hospital is Peking University Hospital (Shenzhen), sometimes referred to as Beijing University Hospital by locals. The other is Hong Kong University Hospital (Shenzhen). Both are readily accessible by either bus or metro. Both are public. I have had extensive experience in both hospitals, so the following information is based on my personal experience. Peking University Hospital is older and services the masses. However, they have a VIP service area (6th floor) and will provide a medical interpreter. Although you will not find very many foreigners at this hospital, the staff overall is very helpful and professional. In fact, I felt extremely well-cared for and was treated with respect, but privacy and cleanliness can be an issue. For the most part, the Chinese have no concept of personal space or privacy, so if you don't have anyone with you to guard the door, people will literally barge into exam rooms as they are anxiously waiting their turn. However, knowing this in advance, you can establish boundaries and maintain a respectable degree of privacy. The medical staff and even patients will do their best to try and help you. In terms of hygiene standards, please bear in mind that this is China. As I stated, this hospital serves the masses, but they do their best to keep it clean, which still pales in comparison to any hospital or clinic you would find in USA. Again, the staff is extremely helpful and the quality of care was outstanding. Hong Kong University Hospital (Shenzhen), is very new, but still public. It is not as centrally located as the other hospital and therefore, is not as busy. Also, as it is new, it is much cleaner. HOWEVER, regardless of what you are told by local Chinese, VERY FEW GENERAL STAFF SPEAK ENGLISH. But they do have some English speaking doctors. The big issue is navigating the system to get to the doctors because I found many of the staff to be very impersonal. Remember Chinese are shy by nature and therefore, not very customer service oriented, so I found that the staff would just point, which is really not so helpful when you need specific information. I received medical care at both of these hospital. At Peking University Hospital (Shenzhen) I was treated for a stroke. Getting the diagnosis was quick because getting diagnostic tests done is extremely efficient. I chose NOT to be hospitalized and received out-patient treatment for 2 hours 3 times a week. Unfortunately, my treatment was NOT covered by my employer's private insurance plan. The costs were less than in USA, but still expensive by Chinese standards. Thankfully, I made a full recovery, no doubt in part to the excellent medical care. At Hong Kong University Hospital (Shenzhen), I received medical treatment for both a broken rib and to diagnosis and treat colorectal cancer. It was a major ordeal to get the proper diagnosis for my cancer, but getting the x-rays, CT scans, blood work, etc. was extremely efficient. In terms of the medical care that I received while I was there, I would say that it was adequate, but there were MAJOR language barriers and numerous miscommunications because the hospital does NOT have translators. Again, I had been told repeatedly that the staff speaks English, but I ASSURE YOU THEY SPEAK CHINGLISH NOT ENGLISH. Oftentimes, it was extremely frustrating because it was difficult if not impossible to understand what they were saying. Their pronunciation was quite poor, so even once they looked up the proper words, it was still hard to communicate. The hospital markets itself as a friendly English speaking hospital, but I PERSONALLY state that is NOT THE CASE. The head surgeon was assigned to my case and he was on staff only part-time as he lives in Hong Kong. I found the junior surgeon and staff to be arrogant, unfriendly, NOT shy. They were very unresponsive to many of my questions and I found myself having to repeat my questions. I had to insist on getting answers. Again, I understand that Chinese people don't typically ask questions to doctors (who apparently at this hospital have the mindset that they are Gods), but this is a medical care facility. As a patient, I expect to be able to ask questions, but I didn't feel that the staff were receptive. In fact, it was impossible to speak to the head-surgeon when I returned to the hospital for follow-up exam 2 months later. Instead I was referred to the junior surgeon who out right refused to get me in touch with the head surgeon who spoke better English. Furthermore, he was recommending further life altering surgery without even doing a proper follow-up physical exam. Communication became impossible, so I went to Peking University Hospital to get a 2nd opinion. At that hospital I was treated with dignity and given a medical translator. The specialist doctor there, recommended I go to Guangzhou to get more treatment options. If I had to rate the care of each of these hospitals, I would give Peking University Hospital an A- (cleanliness could be improved, but it is China) Hong Kong University Hospital would get a D because poor communication impacted the quality of my care. My diagnosis would have been made much earlier if the communication was better. Also, I never received the proper follow-up care," commented one expat living in Shenzhen, China.

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Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

"Due to its population size and large medical system, China has a wide selection of specialists available throughout its major cities. Shanghai, Beijing, and Guangzhou are known for providing high-quality medical services and feature some of the best medical specialists in the country. Other major cities like Chongqing, Harbin, and Chengdu also have well-equipped hospitals and reputable medical practices, providing access to quality care across the country. Furthermore, some rural areas of China boast excellent doctors and hospitals, and are often more accessible than those in the larger cities," remarked one expat living in China.

"I went to Guangzhou Modern Hospital in Guangzhou because they specialize in treatments for cancer and other serious diseases. The population of Shenzhen is still very young overall, so I was advised by a specialist doctor at Peking University Hospital to go to Guangzhou for follow-up to my cancer surgery. Although the doctors and many of the staff spoke decent English, I was provided with a medical translator. The doctors were very caring, professional and extremely knowledgeable with outstanding qualifications. However, the facility was old and by Western standards, not very clean. I think having good doctors is more important that a fancy medical facility," said one expat living in Shenzhen.

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Are common prescription medications available in China?

"Yes, many common prescription medications are available in China. The availability of medications depends on the particular drug sought and its category, with more control being placed upon some categories such as opioids, psychotropics and stimulants than others. The most common prescriptions are antibiotics, antifungals and anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as some cardiovascular drugs and anti-diabetics. There is a good selection of both foreign and generic Chinese medicines available at most pharmacies," remarked one expat living in China.

"There are pharmacies located throughout the city and within both major hospitals. I was prescribed a variety of medications, but only took a few. Compared to medications in the USA they are NOT expensive," said one expat living in Shenzhen.

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Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in China?

"Medical facilities and medical care in China have generally improved in recent years, with many major cities boasting well-equipped and modern hospitals. China spends a considerable amount of money on medical care, providing medical insurance to citizens and implementing reforms to hospitals and medical services. Chinese medical professionals have developed a good reputation for providing quality medical services, and modern medical technology is increasingly adopted in major hospitals, especially in more affluent cities," mentioned one expat in China.

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As a foreigner living in China, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

"Yes, as a foreigner living in China, you will have access to public healthcare. The quality of public healthcare varies in different parts of the country, however some of the cities and provinces provide excellent medical services. Public healthcare usually consists of a network of primary care and specialist hospitals and clinics, providing general and specialist health services, such as diagnosis, treatment, rehabilitation and preventive healthcare. Generally, the wait times can be longer than in private healthcare, but the cost is usually lower. Depending on the province, some treatments may not be available in public healthcare, but can be obtained through private clinics or hospitals," remarked one expat in China.

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What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

We asked expats in China if they have access to public healthcare in China. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...

"My experience with the local healthcare system in China during the pandemic has been generally positive. Hospitals have been well-prepared, with proper regulations and precautions ensuring the safety of both medical staff and patients. Doctors and nurses have been dedicated to providing quality medical care, even when resources have been stretched. The government has worked hard to ensure adequate medical supplies are available, while also enforcing strict travel restrictions. People's awareness of health and safety has also been raised, with many taking precautions such as social distancing and wearing face masks when out in public. All in all, the Chinese healthcare system has responded well to the challenges posed by the pandemic," remarked one expat living in China.

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What advice do you have for expats having a baby in China?

We asked expat moms who gave birth in China about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:

"After the birth, I was really anxious with all these terrible stories of contaminated milk in China... The only solution was to find imported milk for Babies.. at the beginning I filled my suitcases up with baby milk each time I went back to Europe. Finally, I found (and it can help every mummies in China) a website that gives you a personal address in US and UK. I order Guigoz Baby milk and got it sent to me in China in one week. The shipping is really fast and you can also consolidate your buyings with your friends so you can share the fees," remarked one expat in Shanghai.

Are healthcare services good in China?

"It is difficult unless you have someone who speaks English go with you to explain the problem. After that it is easy. I have been three time to the hospital. Once to have a mole removed from my face directly in front of my ear under my side burns (so to speak) and have it biopsied. about 1,200 yuan including anti-biotics. or about $200. Another time was for an eye infection about 200-300 yuan for medicine (office visits are almost free) and to have a new prescription for my eyeglasses which had to be done at the hospital. I paid $0.50 for the exam (not to sure if they meant to charge more, they wanted me to buy the glasses there but they wanted 3,500 yuan about $581 USD (I do need progressive lenses and am very far sighted (+7 to +9 diopter correction I can barely make out the letters at the top of the eyechart!) I said "No way" and left. I later bought them for 1,028 yuan ($170USD). The hospital go out of there way to set me up with doctors that have some English ability and in one case they called in someone like an orderly who had been to America for college and was very good at English and he was i big help. Prescription medication is very expensive. I have diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol for $30USD I got my medicine in the USA for 90 days here it runs about 400 yuan for 30 days or about $66USD," remarked one expat in Nanning, Guangxi Provence.

"Yes and not as expensive as US. Must go to major hospital for clean facilities and care. One hospital we visited an old family friend in was comparable to what i would expect to find in a poor part of Tijuana, Mexico. I had 3 crowns and a root canal done on my teeth for $1,200 total and that was a month ago and everything is fine," explained one expat living in Xi'an.

15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in China

How are healthcare services China?

What are medical services in China like?

Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in China?

What are emergency services like in China?

Will I need to travel to see a specialist?

Are common prescription medications available in China?

Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in China?

As a foreigner living in China, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?

What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?

What advice do you have for expats having a baby in China?

Are healthcare services good in China?

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