Guangzhou has a public and private healthcare system. The public healthcare system is called the National Health Insurance System and is used by Chinese citizens. It is not typically used by foreigners, although some expats and digital nomads may be able to access it. People generally do not recommend using public hospitals in Guangzhou for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Guangzhou are often crowded and understaffed, and the quality of care can be inconsistent. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in China, but most expats prefer to use private hospitals. Private hospitals in Guangzhou are generally more modern and offer higher quality care than public hospitals. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Guangzhou
There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Guangzhou for expats. The Guangzhou United Family Hospital is a private hospital located in the Tianhe District. It is a modern hospital with a wide range of services, including emergency care, surgery, and specialty care. The Guangzhou International Medical Center is a private hospital located in the Zhujiang New Town area. It specializes in providing medical care for expats and digital nomads. The Guangzhou Women and Children’s Medical Center is a public hospital located in the Yuexiu District. It specializes in providing care for women and children.
Emergency Services in Guangzhou
There are ambulance services in Guangzhou. To call for an ambulance, you can dial 120. Ambulances usually arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the time of day and the location.
Health Insurance Companies in Guangzhou
The most popular private health insurers in Guangzhou 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 Guangzhou: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Guangzhou for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even with modern amenities. However, you might have to make a few sacrifices in terms of location and housing options. For example, if you want to live in a more upscale neighborhood like Zhujiang New Town or Tianhe, you might have to settle for a smaller apartment or share with roommates to keep your rent within budget. These areas are more expensive because they’re close to the central business district and have a lot of high-end shopping malls, restaurants, and international schools.On the other hand, if you’re willing to live in a more local neighborhood, you can find larger apartments at a more affordable price. Some popular areas for expats include Haizhu, Yuexiu, and Baiyun. These neighborhoods are still relatively close to the city center and have good public transportation options, but the cost of living is lower than in the more upscale areas. You can find a nice two-bedroom apartment in these areas for around $800 to $1,200 per month, depending on the specific location and amenities.In terms of other expenses, eating out at local restaurants is quite affordable, and you can find a decent meal for around $5 to $10. If you prefer Western food, it’s available but can be more expensive, so you might want to cook at home more often. Groceries are also reasonably priced, especially if you shop at local markets instead of imported goods stores.Transportation is quite affordable in Guangzhou, with a monthly metro pass costing around $30. Taxis and ride-sharing apps like Didi are also relatively cheap compared to Western countries. If you want to save even more on transportation, you can consider getting a bike or an electric scooter, which are very popular in the city.Overall, living on $5,000 a month in Guangzhou is doable, but you’ll need to be mindful of your spending, especially when it comes to housing and dining out. By choosing a more local neighborhood and being open to making some lifestyle adjustments, you can enjoy a comfortable life in this vibrant city,” commented an expat living in Guangzhou.
