Recent online discussions about foreigners traveling long distances to seek medical treatment in China have sparked widespread attention on social media platforms. Journalistic investigations show that while foreign patients still account for a small share of the total patient population in China, their numbers have been on a steady rise. China’s unique advantages in certain medical fields, relatively accessible treatment costs, and the distinctive appeal of traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are key factors driving the trend of "seeking medical care in China".
I. Rising Numbers with a Small Overall Share
Multiple hospitals report that foreign patients make up a minor proportion of their total patient volume, yet the figure has been growing consistently. With the expansion of China’s visa-free policies, the number of foreign visitors seeking emergency medical treatment during their travels has also increased. The International Medical Department of Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) in Beijing has seen a notable surge in foreign patients since 2024. The Second Affiliated Hospital of Hainan Medical University has received a rapidly growing number of foreign patients from countries including Russia, Singapore, and the United States. Following the approval of a new drug, a hospital in Shanghai has treated 11 patients from overseas as well as Hong Kong and Macao regions. According to reports, 850 medical institutions across 57 cities in China now offer international healthcare services.
II. Advantages in Specialized Fields Bolster Appeal
Foreign patients coming to China include long-term expatriates working locally, as well as those traveling specifically for medical treatment or to experience TCM. China boasts extensive clinical experience and cutting-edge technologies in several specialized medical domains. Moreover, advanced treatments and medications such as proton therapy and targeted drugs are available at lower costs compared to developed countries. Complicated and intractable diseases like tumors, cardiovascular disorders, and neurological conditions have become major treatment focuses for many foreign patients. Meanwhile, TCM therapies including acupuncture, moxibustion, and tuina massage, along with characteristic TCM medicines, are highly popular among international patients. Many regions have launched dedicated international medical tourism programs centered on TCM.
III. Steady Development for Win-Win Outcomes at Home and Abroad
Addressing concerns that foreign patients might strain domestic medical resources, official policies stipulate that public hospitals must prioritize basic medical services when providing international healthcare, with special medical services accounting for no more than 10% of their total service volume. Experts from various hospitals note that physicians conduct international consultations only after fulfilling their responsibilities for basic medical care. Additionally, foreign patients cover costs via commercial insurance or out-of-pocket payments, without tapping into China’s domestic medical insurance funds.
Developing international healthcare services helps enrich medical resource supply and serves as a valuable supplement to basic medical care. The experience gained and revenue generated from these services can be reinvested in public hospitals to enhance their overall capacity. Furthermore, pilot programs for establishing wholly foreign-owned hospitals in nine provinces and municipalities will better meet the demand for diversified medical services. Experts suggest that, on the premise of strictly controlling the proportion of international services, efforts should be made to improve service platforms, strengthen capacity building, and develop China into a globally attractive destination for medical tourism.
