[How To:] Guide for Seeking Medical Care

Hill Shanghai will give you a step by step guide about what to do when you come to a local Chinese hospital. And each process that you have to go through to avoid any confusion and make things easier.

When you first arrive at the hospital, you need to get a number. When doing so, you must specify the department you need to visit. If you are unsure which department to go to, first visit the front desk for assistance. It is recommended to use a translation app on your phone and communicate in Chinese with the staff.

At some hospitals, there will be a booklet provided at the counter. If needed, the staff will give you one upon registration or when you get your number. Inform them of the department you need to visit to receive the booklet and card. Once you have these, find the department you need. Volunteers in yellow or orange jackets can help guide you, so feel free to ask them for assistance.

When you arrive at the department, you can do one of two things: some departments have a machine where you can scan your card to register, which will put your name in the queue. If there is no machine, give your information directly to the doctor or nurse at the desk, and they will add you to the queue. Then, wait in the waiting area until you are called into the examination rooms. The room number will appear next to your name on the screen. In the consultation room, discuss your issues with the doctor, who will recommend the next steps in the system.

The next step is to pay. Go to the counter where you got your original card and booklet, which is also the payment counter. Hand your card to the staff, and they will swipe it in their system. The services and fees will appear on their screen. You can then pay using virtual payment or any other method and proceed to the next step.

Find the examination room indicated on your sticker and wait outside until your name is called or appears on the screen. Scan the barcode at the machine to get your test results and move on to the next step. If prescribed medication, the pharmacy counter is usually on the ground floor, different from the initial registration counter. Go there and give your card to the staff to get your medication. After receiving your medicine, you are ready to leave.

If any reports take more than 24 hours, you will need to return to collect them later. For further treatment, bring your records, booklet, and card for reference during your next visit. Additional tips include:

• Smaller community hospitals can handle simple illnesses like colds and basic check-ups. These larger hospitals can be busy, so visit smaller hospitals for minor issues.
• If you can read some Chinese or have a Chinese-speaking friend, you can register your visit in advance through the hospital's WeChat mini program.
• The basic process is the same, so we hope this video is helpful if you need to visit a local hospital. We wish you good health during your stay in Shanghai.