入境医疗风起时:牙科、体检、中医理疗 来华旅游“新三件套”?
2 1 Shi Ji Jing Ji Bao Dao·2026-02-10 00:46

Core Viewpoint - The trend of foreign patients seeking medical treatment in China is rising, driven by factors such as visa-free policies and the appeal of cost-effective healthcare services [1][3]. Group 1: Medical Tourism Trends - The number of international patients visiting China has increased significantly, with a reported 128 million visits in 2025, marking a 73.6% growth over three years [1]. - Popular medical services among foreign patients include dental care, health check-ups, and traditional Chinese medicine [1]. - Social media platforms like TikTok and Xiaohongshu are amplifying the visibility of medical services in China, showcasing cost comparisons that highlight significant savings for patients [1]. Group 2: Factors Driving Medical Migration - Efficiency, pricing, and quality of healthcare are key drivers for patients seeking treatment abroad, particularly from countries with long wait times for non-emergency procedures [3]. - China is attracting patients from lower-income countries due to its affordable healthcare options while also drawing patients from wealthier nations seeking advanced medical treatments [3]. Group 3: Healthcare System Advantages - Chinese medical institutions are responding effectively to the needs of international patients, offering rapid diagnostic services and streamlined treatment processes [4]. - Private hospitals in cities like Shanghai and Kunming are establishing comprehensive care capabilities for cross-border patients, enhancing the overall patient experience [5]. Group 4: Innovations in Medical Treatment - China's pharmaceutical sector is transitioning from generic to innovative drug development, with new treatments like the cancer drug Ivosidenib being available exclusively in China [6]. - The success stories of patients receiving advanced treatments in China are contributing to the country's growing reputation as a medical destination [6]. Group 5: Market Potential and Challenges - Despite the growth potential, China's inbound medical tourism remains limited compared to countries like Malaysia and South Korea, which receive over a million international patients annually [7]. - Regulatory challenges and the need for improved cross-border healthcare standards are significant barriers to the growth of this sector [9]. Group 6: Policy Developments - Shanghai is actively promoting international medical tourism through pilot programs and policy initiatives aimed at enhancing the city's healthcare offerings [7][8]. - The implementation of supportive policies is beginning to show positive results, with hospitals reporting increased numbers of foreign patients [8]. Group 7: Systemic Issues - Challenges such as regulatory discrepancies, payment processing issues, and the limited duration of visa-free stays pose obstacles for patients requiring extensive treatment [10][11]. - The current focus on pure medical treatment lacks the integration of tourism services, which is essential for developing a robust medical tourism ecosystem [11].