外国人为何扎堆来中国就医

Core Viewpoint - The increasing trend of foreign patients seeking medical treatment in China highlights the country's growing appeal in the international healthcare market, driven by unique advantages in certain medical fields and the recognition of traditional Chinese medicine [1][5][7]. Group 1: Growth of Foreign Patients - The number of foreign patients in Chinese hospitals is on the rise, although they still represent a small percentage of total patients [2][3]. - Hospitals like Peking Union Medical College Hospital have reported a noticeable increase in foreign patients, particularly after 2024 [2]. - The international medical service sector in China includes 850 medical institutions across 57 cities, indicating a broadening of services available to foreign patients [3]. Group 2: Reasons for Seeking Treatment in China - Foreign patients are attracted to China for its advanced treatment options in specific medical fields, such as oncology, cardiovascular diseases, and neurology, often at lower costs compared to developed countries [5][6]. - Traditional Chinese medicine practices, including acupuncture and herbal treatments, are gaining popularity among foreign patients, contributing to their decision to seek care in China [5][6]. Group 3: Impact on Domestic Healthcare - The influx of foreign patients is managed to ensure that domestic patients' access to healthcare is not compromised, with regulations in place to limit the proportion of international medical services in public hospitals [7][8]. - The development of international medical services is seen as a way to enhance the overall healthcare system, providing additional resources and innovative practices that can benefit domestic healthcare [7][8]. Group 4: Future Developments - The establishment of foreign-invested hospitals in several provinces is expected to further diversify medical service offerings for both foreign and domestic patients [8]. - Experts suggest that improving service platforms for foreign patients and enhancing multilingual support will strengthen China's position as a global medical destination [8].