Chongqing
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Health and Medical Services
Sections
1. Emergency Medical Services in Chongqing
Emergency Numbers
- Ambulance (Emergency Medical Assistance): Dial 120
- Police: Dial 110
- Fire Services: Dial 119
How to Request an Ambulance
- When calling 120, be prepared to provide:
- Your location (use landmarks if unsure of the address).
- The nature of the emergency (e.g., injury, illness, accident).
- Basic details about the patient (age, symptoms, etc.).
- Note: Ambulance services in China may not always be as fast as in some Western countries. If the situation is critical and you are near a hospital, it may be quicker to take a taxi or private car.
Cost of Emergency Services
- Ambulance services typically cost between RMB 50โ200 depending on the distance and level of care required. Payment is usually required upfront or upon arrival at the hospital.
2. Hospitals in Chongqing
Chongqing has a mix of public and private hospitals. Public hospitals are more affordable but may have longer wait times and limited English-speaking staff. Private hospitals and international clinics are more expensive but often cater to foreigners with English-speaking staff and higher standards of care.
Major Public Hospitals
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The First Affiliated Hospital of Chongqing Medical University
- Address: No. 1 Youyi Road, Yuzhong District
- Services: Comprehensive care, emergency services, and specialized departments.
- Language: Limited English; bring a translator or use a translation app.
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Chongqing Emergency Medical Center
- Address: No. 1 Xinqiao Street, Shapingba District
- Services: Emergency care and trauma services.
- Language: Limited English.
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Southwest Hospital (Southwest Hospital of the Third Military Medical University)
- Address: No. 30 Gaotanyan Street, Shapingba District
- Services: Renowned for advanced medical care and research.
- Language: Limited English.
Private and International Clinics
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United Family Healthcare Chongqing
- Address: No. 1 Longhu Road, Yubei District
- Services: High-quality care, English-speaking staff, and international standards.
- Cost: Significantly higher than public hospitals (consultation fees start at RMB 800โ1,500).
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Global Doctor Chongqing Clinic
- Address: No. 9 Xingguang Avenue, Jiangbei District
- Services: General practice, pediatrics, and emergency care for expats.
- Cost: Higher than public hospitals; insurance is often accepted.
3. Clinics and General Practitioners
- For minor illnesses or non-emergency care, you can visit local clinics or community health centers. These are more affordable but may lack English-speaking staff.
- Private clinics like United Family Healthcare or Global Doctor are better suited for foreigners due to their English-speaking staff and familiarity with international insurance.
4. Pharmacies in Chongqing
Pharmacies are widely available in Chongqing and are often marked with a green cross. Common pharmacy chains include Tongrentang and Yifeng Pharmacy.
What to Know:
- Over-the-counter (OTC) medications for common ailments (e.g., colds, headaches) are readily available.
- Prescription medications require a doctorโs prescription. Bring a copy of your prescription if you need to refill medication from your home country.
- Pharmacists may not speak English, so itโs helpful to have the Chinese name of the medication or its active ingredient written down.
Costs:
- OTC medications are affordable, typically costing RMB 10โ50.
- Imported or specialized medications may be more expensive.
5. Costs of Medical Services
- Public Hospitals:
- Registration fee: RMB 10โ50.
- Consultation fee: RMB 50โ200 (higher for specialists).
- Inpatient care: RMB 200โ500/day (excluding treatment and medication).
- Private Hospitals/Clinics:
- Consultation fee: RMB 800โ1,500.
- Inpatient care: RMB 1,000โ3,000/day.
Payment Methods:
- Most hospitals and clinics require payment upfront.
- Public hospitals may not accept foreign credit cards, so carry cash or a Chinese payment app like WeChat Pay or Alipay.
- Private hospitals and international clinics often accept foreign credit cards and international insurance.
6. Procedures for Accessing Care
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At Public Hospitals:
- Register at the reception desk (ๆๅท, guร hร o). You may need your passport.
- Pay the registration fee.
- Wait for your turn to see a doctor.
- After consultation, pay for any tests, treatments, or medications prescribed.
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At Private Hospitals/Clinics:
- Appointments are usually required. Call ahead or book online.
- Bring your passport and insurance details.
- Payment is made after the consultation or treatment.
7. Health Insurance
- Travel Insurance: Ensure your travel insurance covers medical expenses in China, including emergency evacuation.
- Local Insurance: If you are a resident, consider enrolling in Chinaโs public health insurance system for access to subsidized care at public hospitals.
- Private Insurance: Many expats opt for private international health insurance for access to private hospitals and clinics.
8. Local Safety and Security Considerations
- Language Barrier: English is not widely spoken in public hospitals. Use a translation app or bring a Chinese-speaking friend.
- Counterfeit Medications: Only purchase medications from reputable pharmacies.
- Air Quality: Chongqingโs air quality can be poor, especially in winter. If you have respiratory issues, carry necessary medications and consider using an air purifier.
- Food and Water Safety: Avoid drinking tap water. Stick to bottled or boiled water to prevent gastrointestinal issues.
9. Tips for Staying Healthy in Chongqing
- Vaccinations: Ensure you are up-to-date on routine vaccinations. Consider additional vaccines like Hepatitis A, Hepatitis B, and Typhoid.
- Climate: Chongqing is hot and humid in summer. Stay hydrated and use sunscreen.
- Diet: Chongqing cuisine is spicy. If you have dietary restrictions or a sensitive stomach, communicate this clearly when ordering food.
10. Emergency Preparedness
- Keep a list of emergency contacts, including your countryโs embassy or consulate in Chongqing.
- Carry a basic first-aid kit and any essential medications.
- Familiarize yourself with the nearest hospital or clinic to your residence or workplace.
By following this guide, youโll be well-prepared to navigate Chongqingโs healthcare system and address any medical needs during your stay. If you have further questions or need specific recommendations, feel free to ask!