Alipay and WeChat Pay are the most convenient options. Scanned‑code payment is accepted by nearly all hospitals, pharmacies, restaurants and supermarkets across China, while cash is rarely used. Overseas users may link their international credit cards such as Visa, Mastercard and JCB to Alipay or WeChat Pay. Once linked, you can complete payments by scanning QR codes with the same experience as local Chinese users.

It depends on your specific insurance plan and the hospital.

Some high‑end private hospitals and international departments of public hospitals have direct‑billing partnerships with international insurance companies. Under these arrangements, the insurer settles fees directly with the hospital, so you do not need to pay out‑of‑pocket first and then file for reimbursement.

Most regular public hospitals require you to cover all costs upfront, then submit invoices and medical records to your insurance company back home to claim reimbursement.

If you are unsure whether your insurance is accepted, you may contact **DOVECURE Medical Concierge**. We can help you check the direct‑billing policies of partner hospitals, and prepare English‑language medical records and translated invoice documents required for reimbursement.

In Chinese public hospitals, you generally need to pay a deposit in advance, and any over‑payment will be refunded and under‑payment settled upon discharge.

For outpatient services, payment is completed on‑the‑spot before you receive examinations and collect medicines.

For inpatient treatment, a deposit is required upon admission.Medical costs will be deducted from the deposit during your stay, and final settlement will be made at discharge with refunds for surplus funds or supplementary payment for shortfalls.

Private hospitals and international departments offer more flexible settlement terms, and some support post‑payment.

For overseas users with linked international credit cards, the per‑transaction limit is approximately 2,000 RMB, and the monthly cumulative limit is around 50,000 RMB. This is fully sufficient for daily expenses such as dining, taxi rides and minor medical bills. For substantial medical costs including surgery and hospitalization, you may pay directly with your international credit card (Visa / Mastercard). Payment terminals at most Grade‑A tertiary hospital billing windows support international credit card swiping.

Medical treatment in China mainly involves the S2 visa (short-term medical visa). The S2 visa is issued to foreigners entering China for short-term private affairs including medical treatment, with a maximum single stay duration of 180 days. If the treatment cycle exceeds 180 days, you need to apply for the S1 visa (long-term medical visa), and you must convert it to a residence permit within 30 days after entry. For minor surgeries, outpatient consultations or health check-ups with a treatment cycle within 30 days, citizens of eligible countries can enjoy the visa exemption policy. The relevant visa document preparation, entry formalities coordination and full-process in-hospital medical visit can be completed in one stop through Dovecure China Medical Escort Platform, which covers all supporting services for international patients' entire medical journey in China.

Most international medical insurance imposes restrictions on these services:

1.Routine check‑ups, cosmetic dentistry and TCM wellness care: mostly self‑paid and non‑reimbursable;

2.TCM treatments such as acupuncture and tuina: covered by some high‑end plans with spending limits, and proof of medical necessity is required;

3. Therapeutic dental care: partially covered by certain policies with limited reimbursement rates and caps.

Coverage depends on your policy terms. Send us your policy document, and DOVECURE Concierge will give you a preliminary assessment.

Complications from reasonable treatment are generally covered if within your policy scope. No coverage applies for pre‑existing conditions or excluded items, subject to your insurance policy.

Contact your insurance broker immediately if unexpected issues occur. Keep all medical records and invoices for claim processing.

Direct‑billing means medical fees are settled directly between insurer and hospital. Simply present your insurance card and sign, no upfront payment or reimbursement claim is required.

Two main types of hospitals offer this service:

• High‑end private hospitals & clinics: Most accept major international insurance, with premium service at higher costs.
• International / VIP departments of public hospitals: Such as Peking Union Medical College Hospital International Department, Huashan Hospital International Department, and the VIP clinic of the First Affiliated Hospital of Sun Yat‑sen University. They work with selected international insurance plans, offering access to top public‑hospital specialists and decent service.

Book via DOVECURE, and we will confirm direct‑billing rules and assist pre‑authorization in advance for your smooth hospital visit.