From unreadable English name to failed online passport information checks, Malaysia’s Lee Chee Chuan found every step of China’s healthcare system daunting. Now, having completed his master’s degree at Communication University of China, he has it all figured out.
Proactively seek information
Unfamiliarity with hospital procedures was one of the biggest challenges Lee faced during his medical visits in China. Before going to the campus clinic, he would check the opening hours on official accounts. For off-campus hospitals, he would ask friends first to learn about the registration and consultation process. He also stayed informed by regularly following health-related information on social media.
Once, while accompanying his roommate to the campus clinic, Lee learned by chance that specialists there did not offer afternoon consultations. Later, to get an appointment with a specialist, he would go as early as 8 am to wait in line.
The information he gathered in advance eased the process of his subsequent medical visits.
Don’t hesitate to ask for help
When registering through a hospital’s WeChat mini-program, Lee discovered that he couldn’t complete real-name verification because of his foreign nationality. Instead of giving up, he called the customer service hotline and successfully completed the process by reviewing by hand.
He asked questions whenever he was unsure. At off-campus hospitals, when unfamiliar procedures left him confused, he would approach volunteers for guidance. Once, when he needed surgery, he contacted his insurance company for assistance. A representative was soon sent to the hospital to cover the deposit after verifying the situation, allowing him to be admitted without delay.
Prepared before you go
Lee advised international students to prepare one to three days in advance for their first medical visit and to regularly check online medical guides. “Some posts share doctor recommendations — can be really helpful,” he said.
For minor issues like colds and coughs, he recommended the campus clinic for its convenience. However, he noted that the on-campus clinic has limited equipment and medical expertise. If the condition does not improve effectively within a short time, it’s advisable to go to an off-campus hospital.
Lee shared his own experience: He couldn’t get an appointment with a specialist at the on-campus clinic, so he underwent a basic check-up in the afternoon. But he still felt uneasy about his condition and decided to go to a hospital for further consultation.
He particularly recommended that international students seek medical care at 3A-grade hospitals when going for off-campus medical service: “3A-grade hospitals are more foreigner-friendly, and the entire process is faster.” Moreover, not all hospitals are covered by insurance. Generally, choosing a 3A-grade hospital ensures that insurance can cover advance payments when needed. Before going to the hospital, it’s also a good idea to inform the insurance company to confirm coverage.
Lee also mentioned that it’s best to bring a bag for medication when going to the hospital. If you forget, you can always ask for help. Once, a cleaning woman gave him a bag, solving his problem.
He also recalled accompanying a friend to the emergency room in a critical situation. In emergencies, doctors prioritize treating injuries, so there’s no need to worry about the registration process. “The situation was special because there was bleeding. As soon as we arrived, the doctor stopped the bleeding without waiting for registration.” The emergency room procedures are generally similar to those for outpatient visits.
Build a support system
In Lee’s view, international students in China should learn to make full use of resources from multiple dimensions to build a social support system for medical care.
He emphasized the importance of staying connected with university faculty members. His most unforgettable experience was when he nearly needed surgery. After the doctor recommended hospitalization, he immediately contacted the person responsible for international students: “There’s a binding relationship between international students and the university, so the person in charge must be aware of the situation.” This not only keeps the university informed but also helps when dealing with insurance companies, as official documents from the university would be required.
“It’s possible that international students don’t have enough money, so insurance can cover the costs upfront,” he said. After submitting medical documents and university certificates, the insurance company sent a representative to verify in person and covered the required 20,000 yuan hospitalization deposit.
The companionship of friends is also indispensable during medical visits. Off-campus 3A-grade hospitals often have complex layouts and multiple procedures. When you’re feeling bad, having a friend to help with errands payments, and collecting documents can make a big difference. Lee also said that if your Chinese is not very good, bringing a Chinese friend along can greatly ease communication with doctors and the hospital.
From seeking help to sharing experience
Looking back on his medical experiences in China, Lee sees them as a valuable growth experience. Whereas he once felt confused and overwhelmed about it, it has now become a source of confidence and a motivation to help others. He’s generous in sharing what he has learned with other international students, and his medical guides on RedNote have been shared hundreds of times.
Lee’s experience demonstrates that by seeking information, asking for help when uncertain, and approaching challenges with patience rather than fear, international students can access the medical support they need and navigate China’s healthcare system with confidence.
