Growth is real, but the base is still small

Hospital representatives interviewed by Xinhua said the number of foreign patients has increased, particularly since 2024, but remains a relatively small proportion of total hospital activity.

The China Hospital Association’s international medical services committee has reported that, based on incomplete statistics, 850 medical institutions in 57 mainland Chinese cities provide some form of international medical service.

Why do patients travel to China?

The reasons vary. Some foreign patients already live or work in China. Others travel specifically for treatment. Some tourists seek emergency care during a trip, while others add TCM services to a planned holiday.

Complex diseases are part of the demand

International patients are not travelling only for check-ups or wellness services. The report identified demand involving oncology, cardiovascular disease and neurological conditions, as well as patients searching for specific drugs or specialist expertise.

TCM remains a distinctive attraction

Acupuncture, moxibustion, massage and Chinese herbal medicine continue to draw international interest.

Will foreign patients crowd out local patients?

Xinhua reported that public hospitals are expected to develop international services only after safeguarding basic medical care. Special medical services are subject to scale controls, and foreign patients using international departments generally pay through self-payment or commercial insurance rather than China’s domestic medical-insurance funds.

Source: Xinhua, January 20, 2026.