Capital city, China
Healthcare in Beijing: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Beijing
Public hospitals are crowded and Chinese-speaking; foreigners usually go to international clinics. Pay upfront and carry travel insurance. Call 120 or use DiDi to a hospital.
Hospitals for foreigners in Beijing
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Beijing United Family Hospital | International private hospital with English-speaking staff |
| Peking Union Medical College Hospital | Top public hospital; international medical service department |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ¥500–1,500 ($74–223) at a private clinic without insurance.
- In China: Big-city public hospitals are capable but crowded and Chinese-speaking; international clinics and VIP wings cost far more. Expect to pay upfront and carry travel insurance.
- Pharmacies: Pharmacies are everywhere and well stocked; staff rarely speak English, so show generic drug names or a translation app.
- Health spending: US$763 per person a year (2023); 3.1 doctors per 1,000 people (2022), World Bank.
- Emergency: Police 110 · Ambulance 120 · Fire 119 · Tourist police 12301.
Travel and health insurance
Travel insurance isn't required to enter China, but treatment for visitors is paid upfront.
| Insurer | Good for |
|---|---|
| SafetyWing Nomad Insurance | Monthly subscription for nomads and long trips; cancel anytime. |
| Genki | Health insurance for nomads, from a European insurer. |
| World Nomads | Trip insurance that covers many adventure activities. |
| Heymondo | Single-trip, annual and long-stay plans with a medical app. |
| IMG Global | Travel medical and long-term international health plans. |
Quick answers
What is the best hospital in Beijing for foreigners?
Beijing United Family Hospital: International private hospital with English-speaking staff
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Beijing?
About ¥500–1,500 ($74–223) at a private clinic.
Do I need travel insurance for China?
It isn't required for entry, but recommended: hospitals in China expect visitors to pay or show insurance.
More about Beijing
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Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: China
- National Immigration Administration
- China Railway 12306
- Beijing United Family Hospital
SoloSquare has no commercial relationship with the insurers listed. Compiled and reviewed by SoloSquare. How we compile and score this. Spotted something out of date? Tell us.