Healthcare in Zhejiang is a well-developed system with a mix of public and private providers, offering high-quality medical care, especially in urban areas like Hangzhou, the capital city of Zhejiang.
Quick Facts
Healthcare Overview
The healthcare system in Zhejiang is a mixed model, with both public and private providers offering a range of medical services. The public healthcare system is generally of high quality, with well-equipped hospitals and skilled medical professionals. However, the quality of care can vary significantly between urban and rural areas, with urban areas like Hangzhou and Ningbo tend to have better-equipped and staffed hospitals. The private healthcare sector is also well-developed, with many high-end hospitals and clinics catering to expats and wealthy locals. Overall, the quality of care in Zhejiang is considered to be among the best in China.
The structure of the healthcare system in Zhejiang is based on a three-tier model, with primary care provided by community health centers and clinics, secondary care provided by general hospitals, and tertiary care provided by specialized hospitals and research institutions. The system is generally well-organized, with a strong emphasis on preventive care and public health programs. However, the healthcare system can be complex and bureaucratic, and navigating it can be challenging for foreigners who do not speak Mandarin.
Despite these challenges, Zhejiang has made significant progress in recent years in improving its healthcare system, with a focus on increasing access to care, improving the quality of care, and reducing costs. The province has also invested heavily in medical research and education, with several top-ranked medical universities and research institutions. As a result, Zhejiang has become a popular destination for medical tourism, with many foreigners traveling to the province for high-quality and affordable medical care.
Hospitals & Clinics
| Facility | Location | Type | Specialties | English-Speaking |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Zhejiang University Hospital | Hangzhou | Public | General medicine, surgery, oncology | Yes |
| Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital | Hangzhou | Public | General medicine, surgery, cardiology | Yes |
| Ningbo Li Huili Hospital | Ningbo | Private | General medicine, surgery, orthopedics | Yes |
| Hangzhou Red Cross Hospital | Hangzhou | Public | Emergency medicine, trauma care | Limited |
| Zhejiang Provincial People's Hospital | Hangzhou | Public | General medicine, surgery, neurology | Limited |
| Shanghai International Hospital | Shanghai (near Zhejiang) | Private | General medicine, surgery, pediatrics | Yes |
Health Insurance
- Social insurance is mandatory for Chinese citizens and foreigners working in Zhejiang, and provides basic medical coverage
- Private insurance is recommended for foreigners and wealthy locals, and can provide additional coverage for high-end medical services
- Expats can purchase private insurance plans that cover medical care in Zhejiang and other parts of China
- Local insurance options include Chinese insurance companies like Ping An and China Life, which offer a range of medical insurance plans
- Costs can vary widely depending on the type of insurance and the level of coverage, but expect to pay at least 5,000 CNY per year for a basic plan
- Pre-existing conditions may be excluded from coverage, so it is essential to disclose any pre-existing conditions when purchasing insurance
Pharmacies & Medications
- Prescription medications are widely available in Zhejiang, but may require a prescription from a licensed doctor
- Over-the-counter medications are also widely available, but may not be identical to those found in other countries
- Common brands like Tylenol and Advil are available in many pharmacies, but may be sold under different names
- Costs can vary depending on the type of medication and the pharmacy, but expect to pay at least 50 CNY for a basic prescription
- Pharmacy access is widespread, with many pharmacies located in urban areas like Hangzhou and Ningbo
Vaccinations & Health Risks
- Hepatitis A and hepatitis B vaccinations are recommended for all travelers to Zhejiang
- Rabies vaccination is recommended for travelers who will be spending time in rural areas or working with animals
- Typhoid vaccination is recommended for travelers who will be eating or drinking outside of major restaurants and hotels
- Malaria is not a significant risk in Zhejiang, but dengue fever and Japanese encephalitis can be found in some areas
- Water safety is a concern in some areas, and travelers should avoid drinking tap water or eating unpeeled fruits and vegetables
- Food safety is also a concern, and travelers should avoid eating undercooked meat or seafood
Medical Tourism
- Cosmetic surgery is a popular procedure for medical tourists in Zhejiang, with many high-end clinics and hospitals offering a range of services
- Orthopedic surgery is also popular, with many hospitals and clinics specializing in joint replacement and other orthopedic procedures
- Accredited hospitals like the Zhejiang University Hospital and the Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital offer high-quality medical care and are popular with medical tourists
- Cost savings can be significant, with many medical procedures costing 50-70% less than in other countries
Emergency Procedures
- Ambulance reliability is generally good in urban areas, but can be limited in rural areas
- Nearest hospitals can be found by calling the emergency number 120 or asking a local for directions
- Insurance claims can be complex and time-consuming, and travelers should be sure to keep all receipts and documentation
- Emergency care is generally of high quality, but may not be identical to what is found in other countries
- Language barriers can be a challenge, and travelers should be sure to bring a translation guide or seek out English-speaking medical professionals