Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the current state and potential of cross-border medical services in China, highlighting the increasing number of international patients seeking treatment in Chinese hospitals due to factors such as efficiency, cost-effectiveness, and the availability of advanced medical technologies [1][2]. Group 1: International Patients in China - A significant portion of international patients in China are expatriates working in the country, with the actual number of foreign patients seeking treatment being lower than social media suggests [1][2]. - The efficiency of Chinese hospitals is a major draw for international patients, as exemplified by a patient who experienced a much quicker treatment timeline in China compared to the lengthy processes in the UK [4]. - Some foreign patients are attracted by China's unique traditional medicine practices, utilizing the visa-free entry policy to combine travel with medical treatment [5][6]. Group 2: Cost-Effectiveness of Medical Services - Many international patients are drawn to China due to the cost advantages of medical procedures, such as dental implants, which can be significantly cheaper than in their home countries [8][9]. - A patient from the US calculated that the total cost of dental implants in China was about half of what it would have been in the US, even after accounting for travel expenses [9]. Group 3: Advanced Medical Technologies - China's advancements in medical technologies, particularly in CAR-T cell therapy, are attracting international patients seeking cutting-edge treatments that may not be available in their home countries [9][10]. - The article notes that the preparation time for CAR-T therapies in China can be significantly shorter than in other countries, making it a more viable option for patients who cannot afford to wait [10]. Group 4: Challenges and Opportunities - Despite the potential for growth in cross-border medical services, challenges such as language barriers, unfamiliarity with domestic medical processes, and limited access to international health insurance remain significant obstacles [12][20]. - The article emphasizes the need for improved marketing and awareness of China's medical capabilities to attract more international patients, as many are still unaware of the services available [17][21]. - The development of international medical departments in public hospitals aims to cater to foreign patients without compromising domestic healthcare resources [12][14].
外国人扎推来华看病挤占医疗资源?真相是→
第一财经·2026-01-19 15:54