Beijing, the capital of China, has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides both public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is called the National Health Insurance System and is used by both locals and foreigners.
China’s Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Beijing is the National Health Insurance System, which is used by both locals and foreigners. It is generally recommended to use public hospitals for minor medical issues, such as colds and flu, but not for serious medical emergencies or major surgery. Public hospitals in Beijing are usually crowded and the wait times can be long. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in China, but many expats prefer to use private hospitals for more serious medical issues. Private hospitals in Beijing are usually more modern and have shorter wait times. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Beijing
There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Beijing for expats. These include:
- Beijing United Family Hospital (private hospital) located in Chaoyang District
- Beijing Chaoyang International Medical Center (private hospital) located in Chaoyang District
- Beijing Tongren Hospital (public hospital) located in Dongcheng District
- Beijing Friendship Hospital (public hospital) located in Xuanwu District
- Beijing Children’s Hospital (public hospital) located in Xicheng District
If there are few or no hospitals in Beijing, expats in Beijing may go to hospitals in nearby cities for specialized medical care and for surgeries. For example, the Beijing United Family Hospital has a branch in Shunyi, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
Emergency Services in Beijing
Beijing has ambulance services that can be called for medical emergencies. The number to call is 120. Ambulances usually come quickly, but there can be delays depending on the situation.
Health Insurance Companies in Beijing
The most popular private health insurers in Beijing are Ping An Insurance, China Life Insurance, and China Pacific Insurance. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.
Insider Tips from Expats in Beijing: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Beijing for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. However, you might have to make some sacrifices in terms of housing and lifestyle choices.First, let’s talk about housing. If you want to live in a more affordable neighborhood, I’d recommend looking into areas like Wangjing, Shuangjing, or even Haidian. These areas are still relatively close to the city center and have a good mix of local and expat communities. You can find a decent apartment for around $1,000 to $1,500 a month, depending on the size and location. On the other hand, if you’re looking for a more upscale neighborhood, you might want to consider places like Sanlitun, Chaoyang Park, or Lido. These areas are more expensive, with rents ranging from $2,000 to $4,000 a month for a nice apartment, so you might have to cut back on other expenses if you choose to live there.As for transportation, the subway system in Beijing is quite extensive and affordable, so you can save money by using public transportation instead of owning a car. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Didi are also relatively cheap compared to Western countries.When it comes to food, you can save a lot by eating at local restaurants and street food vendors, which offer delicious and affordable meals. However, if you prefer Western food or dining at high-end restaurants, you’ll need to allocate a larger portion of your budget for that.Entertainment and nightlife can also be quite affordable in Beijing, depending on your preferences. There are plenty of bars, clubs, and live music venues that cater to different budgets. If you enjoy outdoor activities, there are also many parks and historical sites to explore, which are either free or have a low entrance fee.In terms of healthcare, public hospitals in Beijing are generally cheaper than private ones, but the quality of care and language barriers might be an issue. If you prefer private healthcare, you should consider getting health insurance to help cover the costs.Overall, living comfortably on $5,000 a month in Beijing is achievable, but you’ll need to be mindful of your spending and make some sacrifices in terms of housing and lifestyle choices,” commented an expat living in Beijing.
