Beijing, ChinaHealth Care in Beijing
Summary: Learn about the health system in Beijing: how it can and cannot be used by expats, nomads, retirees and others moving to and living in Beijing.
Beijing, the capital of China, has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides both public and private healthcare services. The public healthcare system is called the National Health Insurance System and is used by both locals and foreigners.
China's Healthcare System
The public healthcare system in Beijing is the National Health Insurance System, which is used by both locals and foreigners. It is generally recommended to use public hospitals for minor medical issues, such as colds and flu, but not for serious medical emergencies or major surgery. Public hospitals in Beijing are usually crowded and the wait times can be long. Foreigners are allowed to use the public healthcare system in China, but many expats prefer to use private hospitals for more serious medical issues. Private hospitals in Beijing are usually more modern and have shorter wait times. Private hospitals are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgery.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Beijing
There are several recommended clinics and hospitals in Beijing for expats. These include:
- Beijing United Family Hospital (private hospital) located in Chaoyang District
- Beijing Chaoyang International Medical Center (private hospital) located in Chaoyang District
- Beijing Tongren Hospital (public hospital) located in Dongcheng District
- Beijing Friendship Hospital (public hospital) located in Xuanwu District
- Beijing Children's Hospital (public hospital) located in Xicheng District
If there are few or no hospitals in Beijing, expats in Beijing may go to hospitals in nearby cities for specialized medical care and for surgeries. For example, the Beijing United Family Hospital has a branch in Shunyi, which is about 30 minutes away by car.
Emergency Services in Beijing
Beijing has ambulance services that can be called for medical emergencies. The number to call is 120. Ambulances usually come quickly, but there can be delays depending on the situation.
Health Insurance Companies in Beijing
The most popular private health insurers in Beijing 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.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
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