Q&A: How to See a Doctor at Chengdu First People's Hospital
Author: GoChengdu 2026-09-04

1. Q: What documents do foreign nationals need for medical treatment in the Chinese mainland?

A: A valid passport (original or a photocopy) is sufficient to register for a patient ID card. No domestic ID is required.

 

2. Q: Can I book an appointment with my passport?

A: Yes. The International Medical Department supports appointments via WeChat or phone.

 

Official WeChat Account

 

3. Q: Can I make an appointment without a mobile number registered in the Chinese mainland?

A: Yes. You can make an appointment via 15928822636, or register at the onsite counter, and the International Medical Department accepts appointments booked via WeChat.

 

 

4. Q: Is English interpretation available at the hospital?

A: The International Medical Department provides bilingual services. You may also bring your own interpreter or use translation apps.

 

5. Q: Can overseas commercial insurance be settled directly?

A: The International Medical Department offers direct billing with certain overseas insurers (currently 17 partner companies).

The direct billing partner insurance providers include: Daotian, Fengshi Health, CPIC, Cigna, Medilink-Global, MSH China, Huatai, SureCare, Taikang Life, Huamei Haolian, AIA, Ping An, Taikang Pension, Generali China, Ergo Health, Xinwen Health, and Jibeiji.

 

6. Q: Does the hospital accept Visa/Mastercard credit cards?

A: WeChat Pay and Alipay are accepted at International Medical Department. Visa/Mastercard and cash payments are processed at the Cashier counter.

 

7. Q: Can I get an English version of my diagnosis report or discharge summary?

A: Original reports are in Chinese. For English translations, you will need to use a certified translation agency to provide stamped translations, which are accepted for overseas insurance claims and visa purposes.

 

8. Q: Can someone else request my medical records after I leave the Chinese mainland?

A: Yes. Provide a copy of your passport, a letter of authorization, and the proxy’s ID. Records can be obtained from the Medical Records Office two weeks after discharge.

 

9. Q: Can foreigners receive acupuncture or TCM (Traditional Chinese Medicine) treatments?

A: Yes.

 

10. Q: Do all foreign patients have to go to the International Medical Department?

A: No. You can visit general outpatient or emergency services, but language support and ancillary services are limited. For English service and insurance direct billing, the International Medical Department is recommended.

 

11. Q: What is Chinese herbal medicine? Are there side effects?

A: Chinese herbal medicine consists of traditional botanical ingredients and may have adverse reactions. It must be prescribed by a licensed TCM practitioner; self-medication is not advised.

 

12. Q: Can I bring Chinese herbal medicine back to my home country/region?

A: Customs regulations on plant-based medicines vary by country/region—some prohibit their entry. Check your home’s rules before traveling, and avoid carrying large quantities of herbs without authorization.

 

Edited by Zhang Yuanlin

City Services