Xiamen Humanity Hospital delivers efficient care to a French patient with a fracture. [Photo/Xiamen Daily]
Xiamen began exploring international medical services in January last year. By the end of March 2026, the international medical departments of pilot hospitals had recorded 59,769 outpatient visits, 327 inpatient admissions, and 3,992 premium health check-ups.
For foreign patients based outside China who are seeking treatment abroad, as well as foreign tourists and expats in China who are seeking healthcare assistance, the quality of local medical care is the top priority when they are deciding which city and healthcare provider to choose.
As such, Xiamen's first step has been to build a service platform on a foundation of high-level clinical expertise, in a bid to raise its standing globally.
The city is home to 17 national-level and 90 provincial-level key clinical specialties. These underpin the international medical departments at pilot hospitals, including the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University, Zhongshan Hospital Xiamen University, Xiamen Hospital of Traditional Chinese Medicine, Xiamen Cardiovascular Hospital Xiamen University, Xiamen Humanity Hospital, and Xiamen Chang Gung Hospital.
These departments have developed cross-border medical brands in cardiovascular care, TCM-featured therapies, and precision oncology. They have also launched specialized service packages, such as premium health check-ups, travel-friendly dialysis, and painless gastroenterostomy.
Service quality lies in the details. Pilot hospitals offer one-stop support—from appointments and treatment to visa help, translation, insurance billing, and accommodation. Dedicated coordinators and streamlined processes ensure patients always know who to contact and what to do next.
Payment is a critical part of international care. Xiamen is linking pilot hospitals with insurers for direct billing. This reduces upfront costs for patients and speeds up the process through digital systems — making payments smoother and easing patients' financial concerns.
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