[Official Guide] Seeing a Doctor in China: Step-by-Step From Registration to Prescription

Kurokun

Stay2CN Official Guide | Healthcare | May 2026

China's healthcare system works differently from the West. This guide walks you through the entire process so you know what to expect.

Step 1: Choose Your Hospital Type

Public Hospital (三甲):
• Cheapest option
• Long waits, crowded
• English availability varies
• Best for: routine issues, prescriptions, minor emergencies

International Hospital:
• Expensive (2–5x public hospital prices)
• English-speaking staff
• Direct billing with international insurance
• Best for: serious conditions, complex diagnoses, peace of mind

VIP/Foreigner Clinic (within public hospital):
• Middle ground in price and service
• Shorter waits than general public wards
• Some English support

Step 2: Registration (挂号)

At the hospital registration desk:
1. Show your passport
2. Say which department you need (or describe symptoms)
3. Pay the registration fee (¥10–50)
4. Receive a registration ticket with your queue number

Common departments:
• Internal Medicine (内科) — general illness, fever, stomach issues
• Surgery (外科) — injuries, cuts, broken bones
• ENT (耳鼻喉科) — ear, nose, throat
• Dermatology (皮肤科) — skin issues
• Traditional Chinese Medicine (中医科) — TCM treatments

Step 3: Consultation

• Wait for your number to be called
• Consultation is usually brief (5–10 minutes)
• The doctor may order tests immediately
• No appointment needed for most departments (walk-in system)

Step 4: Tests & Payment

If tests are ordered:
1. Go to the cashier and pay for the tests
2. Go to the lab/imaging department
3. Wait for results (blood tests: 30–60 mins; X-rays: immediate)
4. Return to the doctor with results

Step 5: Prescription & Pharmacy

• Doctor writes prescription
• Pay at cashier
• Collect medicine at hospital pharmacy
• Most prescriptions are for 3–7 days (Chinese practice)

Payment Methods

• Cash (always works)
• Alipay/WeChat Pay (usually works)
• International cards (rarely accepted at public hospitals)

Useful Phrases

"I don't feel well" — 我不舒服 (Wǒ bù shūfu)
"Where is Internal Medicine?" — 内科在哪里? (Nèikē zài nǎlǐ?)
"I have insurance" — 我有保险 (Wǒ yǒu bǎoxiǎn)

Any questions about the Chinese healthcare system? Ask below.

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