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Emergency Healthcare in China: What to Do in a Medical Emergency
Medical emergencies can happen anywhere. Knowing what to do in China can make a critical difference. This guide covers emergency procedures, numbers to call, and what to expect.
Emergency Number: 120
In a medical emergency, dial 120 for an ambulance. When you call:
- Clearly state your address (have it written in Chinese if possible)
- Describe the symptoms as best you can
- Wait for the ambulance at your location
⚠️ Important: The 120 emergency line does not provide multilingual services. If you don't speak Chinese, ask someone nearby to help, or use a translation app.
Emergency Departments
Hospital emergency departments (急诊科) operate 24/7. You can go directly without an appointment.
- Emergency departments treat all patients regardless of insurance status
- Bring your passport and any insurance documents
- Payment typically required upfront — cash, card, or mobile payment
- Grade 3A hospitals have comprehensive emergency capabilities
Hospitals with International Departments
Many public hospitals in major cities have international departments (国际医疗部) with:
- English-speaking or multilingual staff
- Shorter wait times
- Direct billing with some international insurance companies
Many private hospitals also offer world-class services with full language support.
Other Emergency Numbers
| Service | Number |
|---|
| Ambulance | 120 |
| Police | 110 |
| Fire Department | 119 |
| Traffic Accident | 122 |
Before You Travel
- Save 120 in your phone
- Write your hotel address in Chinese characters
- Carry insurance information and emergency contacts
- Know the nearest hospital to where you're staying
- Download a translation app for emergencies
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