Understanding the Health System in China

China's healthcare system is a mix of public and private healthcare, with both offering quality care. The public healthcare system is known as the National Health Insurance (NHI) and is available to all Chinese citizens. Foreigners (expats and digital nomads) are not allowed to use the public healthcare system in China, but they can use the private healthcare system. People generally recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery, as they tend to have better facilities and more experienced staff.

China's Public Healthcare System

The National Health Insurance (NHI) is the public healthcare system in China. It is funded by the government and provides basic medical care to all Chinese citizens. The cost of public healthcare is relatively low, but the quality of care can vary depending on the hospital. Public hospitals in China are often crowded and understaffed, and the facilities may not be as modern as those in private hospitals.

China's Private Healthcare System

Private healthcare in China is more expensive than public healthcare, but it is often of a higher quality. Private hospitals tend to have more modern facilities and better-trained staff, and they are less crowded than public hospitals. Expats primarily use private hospitals, and people generally recommend using private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.

China's Top Hospitals

Some of the most well-known hospitals in China include:

• Peking Union Medical College Hospital (public, Beijing)
• Shanghai Renji Hospital (public, Shanghai)
• West China Hospital (public, Chengdu)
• Beijing United Family Hospital (private, Beijing)
• Shanghai United Family Hospital (private, Shanghai)
• International Peace Maternity & Child Health Hospital (private, Shanghai)

Health Insurance Companies in China

The most popular private health insurers in China 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 China: How to Navigate the Health System

"Medical services in China are generally of a high standard, with a wide range of modern facilities and equipment available. Many hospitals in China are well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals, providing a range of services from general practice to specialist care. Chinese hospitals also offer a variety of traditional Chinese medicine treatments, such as acupuncture and herbal remedies. In addition, many Chinese cities have international hospitals that provide medical services in English and other languages," commented one member living in China.

"It is IMPERATIVE that you speak Chinese or else you need to take someone who is FLUENT in Chinese as interpreter. Some doctors speak English (or rather Chinglish) and communication is critical in receiving appropriate medical care. Also, be aware that the average Chinese person most likely will not have the medical vocabulary, so unless you have a medical interpreter communication will still be challenging, but it will be better than nothing," commented one expat living in Shenzhen, China.

"Healthcare services in China are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is largely funded by the government and provides basic medical services to citizens. The quality of public healthcare varies from region to region, but generally it is considered to be of a good standard. Foreign residents do have access to the public healthcare system, however, they may need to pay a fee for certain services. Expats in China can use the public healthcare system, but they may need to pay a fee for certain services. In addition, many expats opt to purchase private health insurance to cover any additional costs," mentioned one expat living in China.