FAQ
Disclaimer
This app provides user opinions and experiences only and does not provide medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional for medical concerns.
App usage
How do I use this app?
Search for hospitals, departments, and doctors, then read or write reviews to share your experience and help other patients. Use filters to narrow results by city, specialty, language support, and service type.
Can I save hospitals or doctors for later?
Yes. You can bookmark hospitals and doctors, and keep notes about what questions to ask, required documents, and appointment steps.
Chinese medical system
What is a tertiary hospital in China?
Tertiary hospitals (Level III) are large hospitals with many specialists and advanced equipment. They are commonly used for complex diagnoses, surgeries, and multidisciplinary care, but they can be busy and have longer waiting times.
When should I go to a community clinic instead of a big hospital?
Community clinics are suitable for minor illnesses, chronic prescription refills, and basic checkups. For emergencies or complex conditions, you should go to a larger hospital or an emergency department.
What is the difference between public and private hospitals?
Public hospitals are the core of China's healthcare system and often have strong specialist teams. Private or international hospitals may provide more comfortable service, easier appointments, and stronger English support, but quality and pricing can vary by institution.
Before you travel
What should I do before traveling to China for medical care?
Start by identifying the right specialty and hospital type (general vs specialty, public vs international department). Prepare key medical documents (diagnosis, imaging, lab results) and a short medical summary in English. If possible, also prepare a Chinese translation for smoother communication.
Should I contact the hospital before I arrive?
For complex care, consider contacting the hospital's international department (VIP center) or an official international patient service. They can help confirm required documents, appointment steps, and estimated timelines.
Hospitals & appointments
Do I need an appointment, or can I walk in?
Some hospitals accept walk-ins, but many popular specialists require appointments. In large public hospitals, you may need to register, pay, and wait—sometimes multiple times in one day for tests and results.
What should I bring to the hospital visit?
Bring your passport, appointment confirmation (if any), and all medical documents. It's helpful to carry printed copies, not just digital versions.
Why do hospitals sometimes ask me to pay before treatment?
In many hospitals, you may pay first, then receive tests or treatment, then return with results for further consultation. Keep all receipts and documents together.
Costs & payments
How much does treatment cost in China?
Payments may include registration fees, consultation fees, tests, imaging, medications, and procedure deposits. Costs vary widely by city, hospital level, and whether you use an international department.
What payment methods should I expect?
Many places accept bank cards, but mobile payments are common in China. Some international hospitals accept international insurance direct billing, while public hospitals often require self-pay first. Confirm payment options before your visit.
Language & documents
Will doctors speak English?
Some international hospitals and public hospital international departments offer English support. In standard public outpatient clinics, English availability may be limited, so a translator (human or app-based) can help.
What medical documents are most important to prepare?
A short summary is extremely helpful: your main diagnosis, symptoms timeline, current medications, allergies, past surgeries, and what you want to achieve in China (consultation, surgery, rehab, second opinion).
Can I bring my own medication into China?
If you bring prescription medication, keep it in original packaging and bring a doctor's note or prescription. Controlled substances may require declaration or additional paperwork—check rules before traveling.
Visa & entry
Do I need a visa for a medical trip to China?
It depends on your nationality and travel purpose. Some travelers may qualify for visa-free entry or transit policies, while others need a visa. If your main purpose is medical treatment and your stay may be longer, plan early and confirm the correct category.
Can I extend my stay if treatment takes longer?
Yes. If treatment takes longer than your permitted stay, you may be able to apply for an extension at a local Exit-Entry Administration office. Start planning before your current stay expires and keep hospital documents that prove ongoing treatment.
Aftercare & follow-up
What should I do after treatment in China?
Ask for discharge summaries, imaging reports, lab results, and a medication plan. Keep receipts for insurance. Share your records with your local physician for continued care.
Can I get follow-up care after I return home?
Many hospitals can provide follow-up instructions, but cross-border telemedicine availability varies. When possible, arrange follow-up with your home-country doctor using the records from China.
Safety & privacy
Does this app provide medical advice?
No. This app shares patient experiences and ratings only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult a qualified doctor for medical decisions.
Will my real name be shown with my reviews?
You can choose to post reviews anonymously. When you do, your name is hidden from other users, but we still enforce content rules to keep the community safe.
What should I avoid sharing in a review?
Avoid posting passport numbers, phone numbers, addresses, or full medical record IDs. Share general experiences, but keep sensitive identity details private.