How to See a Doctor in China: Hospital Types, Appointments & Outpatient Guide

If you need to see a doctor in China for a non-emergency issue, this guide walks you through the hospital system, appointments, and what to expect.

Types of Hospitals

Public Hospitals (公立医院)

Government-run hospitals are the backbone of China's healthcare. Grade 3A hospitals (三级甲等) are the most authoritative. Some have international departments for foreign patients with English-speaking staff.

Private Hospitals (私立医院)

Many offer world-class services with full language support. More expensive but more comfortable for foreign patients. Examples: United Family Healthcare, Raffles Medical, Jiahui Health.

How to Make an Appointment

1. App or website: Use WeChat, Alipay, or the hospital's official app (some have English interfaces)
2. Phone: Call the hospital's appointment hotline
3. In person: Visit the service counter or use a self-service machine

Outpatient Visit Steps

1. Registration (挂号) — Check in with your appointment confirmation
2. Wait — Take a number. Arrive early at public hospitals.
3. See the doctor — Examination and possible test orders
4. Tests — Blood tests, X-rays, etc.
5. Return to doctor — Review results
6. Prescription — Get medicine at the pharmacy or schedule a procedure
7. Payment — Keep all receipts for insurance

Special Services

Childbirth

Both public and private hospitals offer childbirth. Some allow family accompaniment. Prepare your own pajamas, towels, and baby supplies.

Health Check-ups

Foreigners who have resided in China for one year or more must undergo a health check-up at the International Travel Health Care Center.