Medical Care in ChinaGoChinaGuide
Emergency Medical Guide for Travelers in China
A fast-response protocol for emergencies, from first contact to ER arrival.
Uniformed personnel can coordinate help quickly
Didi/Gaode rides can be faster than ambulances for non-critical cases
120 is the national medical emergency hotline
Quick answer
If you can move, go directly to a tertiary hospital; if you cannot, call 120 for an ambulance.
Immediate help in public places
In tourist areas, look for police, subway staff, or mall security who can contact dispatch quickly.
- Ask for help in English or say "Wo xuyao bangzhu" (I need help)
- Use "Yisheng" (Doctor) if you need medical assistance
If you can move: go directly by car
For urgent but non-life-threatening issues, a Didi or Gaode ride is often faster than waiting for an ambulance.
- Use Didi (滴滴) or Gaode (高德地图) inside WeChat or Alipay
- Set the destination to the nearest tertiary hospital (三级医院)
- Ensure international card payments are activated before travel
If you cannot move: call 120
Call 120 for life-threatening emergencies or when the patient cannot be moved safely.
- English support may be available in Tier-1 cities but is not guaranteed
- Ask a local to call if possible for clearer location details
- Ambulances provide stabilization en route
Arrival at the ER
Registration and payment are typically required on arrival unless you are routed through a life-threatening “green channel.”
- Passport is required for registration
- Payment is often requested before treatment begins
- ER triage levels determine how fast you are seen