EMERGENCY CARE

In case of a medical emergency, it is best to telephone the International SOS, with their team of Western and Western-trained doctors, or one of the Western medical clinics like Parkway Health or United Family Hospital, for advice.

The U.S. and Australian Consulates also have nurses on staff, and they can assist in suggesting an appropriate course of action also. The Public Security Bureau’s Division for Aliens can also help direct foreigners seeking emergency medical care.

Knowledgeable health care personnel suggest that in the event of an emergency, patients are transported to the hospital by private car or taxi. Ambulances are not adequately equipped, either with medical equipment or staff, who usually have little or no medical training.

Once you are at a local hospital, the care is competent; expatriates report that their cases are diagnosed accurately and treated appropriately.

Note: Shanghai United Family,  an established Beijing-based Western managed and staffed hospital has a 24-hour full service Emergency Room staffed by expatriate physicians and ambulance service.