What Foreigners Should Prepare Before Visiting a Hospital in China
Short answer: Bring your passport, payment method, insurance details, medical history, medication list, allergy information, and any previous reports. If you do not speak Chinese, prepare key phrases before you arrive.
Documents
- Passport
- Visa or residence permit if available
- Chinese phone number if you have one
- Hotel address or China address
- Emergency contact
Payment and insurance
- Insurance card or policy PDF
- Insurer emergency hotline
- Credit card, cash, Alipay, or WeChat Pay
- Employer or school insurance contact if relevant
Medical information
- Current medicines
- Allergies
- Past diagnoses
- Recent test results
- Imaging files or reports if available
- Discharge summaries or operation notes for complex cases
Before leaving the hospital
- Ask for the diagnosis record.
- Ask for itemized bills and official receipts.
- Keep prescriptions and medicine packaging.
- Ask how to get test results.
- Ask whether follow-up is needed.
Source note: This guide is based on public healthcare information, practical China healthcare experience, and official safety guidance where relevant. Hospital policies, prices, insurance rules, and appointment routes can change. Always confirm details with the hospital or insurer before making a medical decision.
Medical disclaimer: China Healthcare Navigator provides practical information for foreigners trying to understand healthcare in China. It is not medical advice, diagnosis, treatment advice, insurance advice, or a substitute for professional care. In an emergency, call 120 or go to the nearest emergency department.