Insurance & Payment
Two questions dominate every medical travel plan: "will my insurance pay?" and "how do I actually pay the hospital?" Here's how both work in China.
Does my international insurance work in China?
It depends on your insurer and the hospital:
- Private international hospitals (Jiahui, United Family, etc.) commonly offer direct billing with major international insurers — you show your card, the hospital bills your insurer, you pay the difference (if any).
- International departments of public hospitals increasingly support direct billing too; PUMCH's international department, for example, covers insurers across 200+ countries and regions.
- Local departments of public hospitals usually require out-of-pocket payment; you then claim reimbursement from your insurer with the documents below.
Before travelling, call your insurer's international assistance line and ask three questions: Is China covered? Is this hospital in-network? What pre-authorization is required?
Out-of-pocket payment methods
- International cards (Visa, Mastercard) are accepted at international departments and private hospitals.
- Mobile payment (WeChat Pay / Alipay) is ubiquitous in China and now supports international cards for many visitors.
- Cash (RMB) is always accepted but inconvenient for large bills.
- For planned procedures, many hospitals accept a deposit or prepayment — confirm with the billing desk.
Documents you need for reimbursement
If you pay out of pocket, collect these at the hospital before you leave (request English versions):
- Itemized invoice (费用明细单) showing each charge in RMB.
- Official receipt (发票) — required by most insurers.
- Medical records — diagnosis, treatment notes, prescriptions.
- Discharge summary (for inpatient care) in English.
- Test and imaging reports — films are usually provided digitally.
Ask the international department to prepare a reimbursement package — they do this routinely.
Travel insurance vs medical insurance
Standard travel insurance covers emergencies and short-term acute care but rarely planned treatment. If you're travelling for treatment, you need either: (a) coverage from your home health insurer that includes China, or (b) a medical travel insurance policy that explicitly covers planned procedures. Never rely on travel insurance for elective treatment.
Frequently asked questions
Can I use my US Medicare or UK NHS coverage in China?
No — national public schemes generally do not cover treatment abroad. You'd pay out of pocket or use private international coverage.
What if my insurer requires pre-authorization?
Request it in advance with your hospital's written treatment plan and cost estimate. International departments are experienced with insurer paperwork and will help you draft it.
Are receipts issued in English?
International departments can issue English invoices and medical records. Ask for the full reimbursement package before you leave the hospital.