City, China
Healthcare in Shanghai: hospitals, costs and insurance
Healthcare in Shanghai
Strong hospitals with English-speaking doctors at international clinics; pay upfront and carry travel insurance. Call 120 or take a DiDi to the nearest ER.
Hospitals for foreigners in Shanghai
| Hospital | Good to know |
|---|---|
| Shanghai United Family Hospital | International private hospital, English-speaking staff |
| Huashan Hospital (International Medical Center) | Top public hospital with foreigner services |
Key facts
- Doctor's visit: ¥500–1,800 ($74–268) 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 Shanghai for foreigners?
Shanghai United Family Hospital: International private hospital, English-speaking staff
How much does a doctor's visit cost in Shanghai?
About ¥500–1,800 ($74–268) 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 Shanghai
Going to Shanghai solo?
SoloSquare is where travelers, nomads and locals in Shanghai meet up for small plans: coffee, dinners, walks and day trips. Join one, or start your own in a minute.
Sources
- World Bank: health expenditure per capita
- CDC Travelers' Health: China
- Shanghai Metro
- National Immigration Administration
- Shanghai 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.