How to Book Appointments in Major Hospitals in Beijing & Shanghai
Navigating hospital appointments in China can be confusing, even for locals β and more so for foreigners who are used to very different healthcare systems.
In Beijing and Shanghai, where some of China's top hospitals and international clinics are located, understanding how the system works can make all the difference between a smooth experience and a stressful day.
Whether you're an expat living in China or visiting for medical tourism, this guide will help you understand how to book hospital appointments efficiently β and how to get help when the process feels overwhelming.
Need assistance with hospital appointments? Contact us for medical navigation support. Learn more about seeing a doctor in China.
Understanding How the Chinese Hospital System Works
China's hospital system is divided into three main tiers:
Tier 3 (Top-level)
Large, comprehensive hospitals with specialists and advanced technology (e.g., Peking Union Medical College Hospital, Ruijin Hospital, Huashan Hospital).
Tier 2
Regional hospitals providing general care and basic specialties.
Tier 1 / Community clinics
Primary care and preventive services.
In large cities like Beijing and Shanghai, most expats and international patients choose Tier 3 hospitals or international medical centers for their higher standards, English-speaking staff, and international insurance acceptance.
Appointment Booking Methods
Unlike in many Western countries, most hospitals in China do not rely on centralized referral systems β patients can book appointments directly with specialists. Here are the main booking methods available:
1. Hospital's Official Website or App
Most major hospitals have their own digital platforms. Examples include:
- β’ Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH) App / Website
- β’ Beijing United Family Hospital (WeChat / Website)
- β’ Shanghai Ruijin Hospital WeChat Mini Program
Note: Registration may require a Chinese ID or mobile number, so many foreigners rely on local assistants or services for help.
2. WeChat Mini Programs (Most Common)
Nearly all hospitals now use WeChat-based appointment systems, accessible by searching the hospital's official account. Steps usually include:
Booking windows usually open 3β7 days in advance, and high-demand specialists can fill up within minutes.
3. Telephone Booking or In-Person Registration
Some hospitals still allow phone reservations through English-speaking hotlines, especially international departments.
In-person registration (η°εΊζε·) is possible but time-sensitive β queues may start as early as 6:30 AM in popular hospitals.
4. International Departments & Clinics
Many top public hospitals have international wings (ε½ι ε»ηι¨) offering simplified, English-supported booking. Appointments can be made:
- β’ By email or phone (in English)
- β’ Through concierge services or international patient desks
These departments usually have shorter wait times, private consultation rooms, and direct billing options for international insurance.
Example institutions:
- β’ Beijing Peking Union Hospital International Wing
- β’ Shanghai Huashan Hospital International Medical Center
- β’ Ruijin Hospital International Department
Practical Tips for Foreign Visitors
Bring Proper Documentation
- β’Passport (instead of Chinese ID)
- β’Health insurance card or details
- β’Previous medical records or test results (translated if possible)
Payment & Insurance
- β’Most hospitals require payment upfront (cash, Alipay, or WeChat Pay)
- β’Only selected international clinics offer direct insurance billing
Arrive Early
Even with an appointment, patients often need to check in, collect a paper ticket, and confirm payment before seeing the doctor.
Language Assistance
Few hospitals have fully bilingual staff outside their international wings. Bringing a medical interpreter or concierge can save time and ensure accurate communication β especially when discussing symptoms or medications.
How ChinaMed Waypoint Can Help
If you're new to the Chinese healthcare system, it's easy to get lost in translation β literally and figuratively. Our team at ChinaMed Waypoint provides personalized assistance for expats and visitors:
- Appointment booking with top hospitals in Beijing & Shanghai
- English-language support throughout the visit
- Coordination with international departments and insurance
- On-site interpretation & navigation assistance
With expert guidance, your visit can go from stressful to seamless β allowing you to focus on your care, not logistics.
Related Reading
Want to explore more about healthcare choices and specialist care in China? Here are two helpful guides from our Healthcare in China series:
π Your Healthcare Journey in China Can Be Simple β With the Right Guidance
Navigating hospital systems in a new country can feel intimidating, but it doesn't have to be.
Once you understand how appointments work β and where to find trusted English-speaking doctors β getting care in China's major hospitals becomes far more manageable.
Ready to Book Your Hospital Appointment in Beijing or Shanghai?
If you'd like personal assistance booking an appointment or connecting with the right specialist, our experienced ChinaMed Waypoint consultants are here to help.