How International Patients Access Healthcare in Shanghai

Healthcare Access for International Patients in Shanghai

Shanghai has developed a comprehensive healthcare ecosystem that welcomes international patients. Understanding how the system works helps patients navigate their healthcare journey with greater confidence.

Types of Healthcare Facilities

International Hospitals and Clinics

Shanghai has several international hospitals and medical centers specifically designed for overseas patients. These facilities typically offer:

English-speaking medical staff and administrative support

Familiar clinical environments and workflows

Direct billing arrangements with international insurers

Comprehensive services from general practice to specialist care

Public Hospitals with International Departments

Many of Shanghai's top public hospitals operate dedicated international medical departments (国际医疗部). These departments provide:

Access to senior specialists and professors

English-language coordination

Priority appointment scheduling

Separate waiting areas and consultation rooms

Private Specialty Clinics

Shanghai has a growing network of private specialty clinics — particularly in dental care, dermatology, and medical aesthetics — that serve international patients with English-speaking practitioners and modern facilities.

How to Make an Appointment

International patients can access healthcare in Shanghai through several pathways:

1. Direct contact — Contact a hospital or clinic directly to schedule an appointment

2. Healthcare navigation service — Use a coordinator like Deepnav Health to identify suitable providers and manage appointments

3. Insurance referral — Some international insurers can recommend in-network providers

Most international departments accept appointments via phone, email, or WeChat. Walk-in appointments may also be available for urgent needs.

Language and Communication

While many international hospitals and clinics have English-speaking staff, language can still be a consideration, especially at public hospital international departments where administrative staff may have limited English proficiency. Deepnav Health provides English-language coordination to bridge any communication gaps.

Payment and Insurance

Payment Methods

Most international hospitals accept major credit cards (Visa, Mastercard)

Cash (RMB) is widely accepted

Some facilities accept international bank transfers

Mobile payment (Alipay, WeChat Pay) is common but may require a Chinese bank account

Insurance

Some international health insurance plans provide coverage for treatment in Shanghai. Check with your insurer about:

Whether the facility is in-network

Direct billing vs. pay-and-claim arrangements

Pre-authorization requirements

What to Bring to Your Appointment

Passport (required for registration at all facilities)

Medical records and diagnostic images from your home country

List of current medications

Insurance card and policy information (if applicable)

A summary of your medical history and current concerns

Common Questions About Accessing Healthcare

Do I need a referral to see a specialist? Generally no. Most international departments and private clinics in Shanghai accept self-referrals. However, some specialists may prefer a referral letter.

How long are waiting times? Waiting times for international departments are typically shorter than public hospital queues. Appointments can often be scheduled within a few days to a week.

Can I access emergency care? Yes. Shanghai hospitals have emergency departments. International hospitals and public hospital international departments provide emergency services for overseas patients.

Are medical records available in English? International hospitals provide records in English. Public hospital international departments typically provide bilingual documentation.

Next Steps

Planning to access healthcare in Shanghai? Contact Deepnav Health for guidance on suitable providers and coordination support throughout your healthcare journey.

Learn more: Our medical network → | Why choose Shanghai for healthcare → | How international patients access care →