How to See a Doctor at a Local Chinese Hospital

This guide outlines the steps to navigate a visit to a local Chinese hospital ensuring a smooth experience.

Tip: Arrive early to see experienced doctors as lines can be long. Most hospitals offer appointment booking via hotline or online platforms.

Step 1: Register

Process: Go to the admission desk to register (guahao) and pay the admission fee.
Required: Bring your passport and if needed the name of the specific department.
Outcome: If it’s your first visit you’ll receive a hospital card (binglika) for future visits.

Step 2: See the Doctor

Process: Wait for your number to be called then enter the consultation room.
Examination: The doctor will ask about your symptoms and perform checks using medical instruments.

Step 3: Get Medicine and Pay Fees

Process: After receiving a prescription (chufang) pay the fees and visit the hospital pharmacy (yaofang) usually located in the outpatient building’s lobby.
Outcome: Show the prescription to the pharmacist to collect your medicine.

Step 4: Do Further Tests (if needed)

Process: If the doctor suspects an infection or serious condition they may prescribe tests. Pay for the tests then visit the examination section with your receipt.

Results:

If results are quick consult the same doctor without re-queueing.

If results take a day or more you’ll need to register again for follow-up.

Step 5: Hospitalization or Surgery (if required)

Process: The doctor will check bed and surgery availability. Pay all potential costs upfront.

Ward Options: You may share a ward with others or opt for a VIP ward (private or semi-private room if available).

Online Reservation Option

You can book appointments online to save time. Basic Chinese may be helpful.

Using the Suishenban App

Steps:

Scan the QR code with WeChat to open the app.

Register and select “Healthcare” on the homepage.

Choose “Registration Reservation” then select hospital department and doctor.

Confirm by selecting “Reserve” for your appointment time.

First-Time Users:

Go to “Patient” > “Add Patient” > “Foreigner.”

Enter your personal details and save.

Confirmation:

Submit your details and enter the SMS verification code sent to your phone.
Your reservation is confirmed upon verification.

Major Foreign-Funded or Joint-Venture Medical Institutions in Shanghai

[Note: List not provided in the original content; refer to local resources for details.]