Health:
Medical Services for Expatriates in Shanghai
Health in Shanghai
Rest-assurred, basic health care is perfectly adequate in Shanghai, taking on the form of American-style medical centres. The good news is that the quality of services and availability are improving all the time as the number of expats increases.
Each expatriate community has its own services available locally. Obviously, the bigger the community - the more medical facilities.
The best way to find the right health care provider for you is by listening to recommendations from friends and colleagues. Then establish a relationship before an emergency situation occurs. Inform your employer and friends of your preferred choice and set up an emergency plan for you and your family which you should also mail home to a trusted friend or family member.
Expatriates are generally treated at one of the city’s Western-staffed and managed clinics by generalists or at designated foreigners' clinics in local hospitals, but facilities and treatment are limited at both. Foreigners' clinics are supposed to have English-speaking personnel, but usually the level of English is poor, and you should bring along a Chinese speaker to make sure you understand what needs to be done.
The care itself is usually competent, and very inexpensive compared to Western clinics and the West. Other hospitals will treat foreigners, but only in emergencies.
There are a number of private hospitals and clinics in Shanghai set up as joint-ventures. Quality, education and experience vary greatly as do equipment, services and medications available.
For more serious / complicated issues, patients usually return to their home countries or seek treatment in Hong Kong, Bangkok or Shanghai. Generally speaking, complicated health issues are best handled abroad.
Immunization
Shanghai does not require any immunizations, but Hepatits A & B, Japanese encephalitis and rabies are recommended. Ideally, these should be done before you arrive in the country, but if not, the clinics below can usually do them for you. Check before you arrive, as some immunizations may not be available.
| Address: |
Shanghai United Family Hospital & Clinic
Tel: 6291 1635
Fax: 6291 1637
Website |
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Medication
Similarly, all the medication you might need over the counter and prescription should be brought with you, as not all medication can be found in Shanghai. The law requires import certificates with any medication that you send into the country (via a shipment, for example), although local health professionals say that it is rare for a customs officer to ask to see one. Medication that you carry with you does not fall into this category, but should have a prescription.
| Info: Prior to Relocation |
| Ideally, you should try to inform yourself on the areas of medical care relevant to you via websites like the Mayo Clinic, and work out a plan for care with your current physician and your Shanghai doctor, as the depth of speciality health care simply does not exist here yet. |
|
Disabilities
Health Problem Support Groups
Health problems support groups are run mostly by expats, and tend to be very individually-driven. There have been support groups issues as diverse as cancer and wives whose husbands have left them for Chinese girlfriends.
There are a number of expat support groups within the International Women's Associations.
Health Insurance
For reasons mentioned before, expatriates should have health insurance that includes repatriation (or at least travel to Hongkong for emergency treatment). Repatriation for medical care is also useful for those who may encounter medical emergencies while traveling abroad.
If your company does not provide a service for you, you should shop around to identify a health care provider that caters for all your different needs, such as for general health problems, children or dental services. Providers often often cheaper packages inside China than purchasing from your country of origin.
It is worth considering a comprehensive package that includes dental and doctor visits. A single consultation with a doctor will cost between 80 and 140 USD without medicine, so this could add up to a sizeable cost if you have children. See also Insurance.
Emergency Care
In case of a medical emergency, it is best to teleTel the International SOS, with their team of Western and Western-trained doctors, or one of the Western medical clinics like Parkway Health, 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.
Photo: Microsoft Office Clipart
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.
If you contact SOS or one of the clinics, however, their staff may be able to accompany you.
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 Hospital and Clinics, an established Beijing-based Western managed and staffed hospital has a 24-hour full service Emergency Room staffed by expatriate physicians and ambulance service.
| Info: |
| Emergency Ambulance |
Tel: 120 |
SOS Alarm Center
Non-Emergency Ambulance
|
Alarm Tel (86) (21) 6295 0099
Alarm Fax (86) (21) 5298 9096 |
| ParkwayHealth and Dental Clinics |
24-hour Healthline: 6445-5999 |
| U.S. Consulate Nurse |
Tel: 6433 6880 |
| Shanghai United Family Hospital and Clinic |
Tel: 5133 1999 |
| Australian Consulate Nurse |
Tel: 5292 5500 |
| Shanghai Children's Medical Centre |
Tel: 5873 2020
Director of Expatriate Services:
Tel: 5839 5238 |
Shanghai Huashan Hospital
Foreigner's Clinic
15th floor |
Tel: 6248 9999 |
Shanghai Huadong Hospital
Foreigner's Section, 2nd Floor |
Tel: 6248 3180 ext. 3106
BP: 6329 5588 |
Shanghai No. 1 People’s Hospital
International Medical Centre |
Tel: 6306 9485 (Appointments)
Tel: 6306 9480 (Administration) |
Ruijin Hospital |
Tel: 021 6437 0045 x 668101
(Outpatients and Emergencies only)
Tel: 6324 0090 x 668202 (24-hour house calls) |
Public Security Bureau
Division for Aliens |
Tel: 6357 6666 |
Shanghai East International Medical Center (SEIMC)
551 South Pudong Road
Website |
Tel: (86 21) 5879-9999 Ext 2663
Tel: (86 21) 5879-9999 (24hrs) |
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Hospital Admission
Foreigners may go to designated Foreigner's Clinics at local hospitals, but it is a good idea to bring along a Chinese-speaker if you don't speak Chinese. Even if your doctor speaks English, the admissions nurse may not.
Referrals are not necessary, but if you do get one from a Western clinic, the visit will be smoother as the local hospital will understand exactly what's to be done. No payment is required until after your visit is complete, and prices are very low compared to the West.
It is a good idea to carry a credit card with a high limit just for emergencies.
Photo:enterAsia Art
Insurance companies in Shanghai require that payment is made first, and then claims and receipts sent to the insurance company. Only top hospitals like Ruijin and Huadong are recognized by local insurance companies, while some hospitals only accept a limited number of insurance companies. Check with your insurance company and your local health care provider.
Note: Shanghai hospitals are not up to the standards of Western hospitals - they are often dingy, with older equipment. As is the case everywhere, however, most physicians are competent, some are excellent, and many Shanghai expatriates swear by their Chinese doctors.
Local Hospitals
Shanghai has over 80 hospitals, but foreigners are technically only permitted to go to those with designated foreigners' clinics, listed below. These are Shanghai's top hospitals, but you may be referred to others for speciality treatments.
| Addresses |
Shanghai Huashan Hospital
United Asia Huashun Medical Service
13/F, Foreign Guest Building
12 Wulumuqi Zhong Lu
Tel: 6248 9999
Fax: 6248 8176 |
Shanghai Huadong Hospital
221 Yan An Xi Lu
Tel: 6248 3180 ext. 3106
BP: 6329 5588 |
Ruijin Hospital
Website
197 Ruijin Er Lu
Tel: 6437 0045 |
Ruidong Hospital
1507 Loushan Lu, Lane 50
Jinqiao, Pudong
Tel 5833 9595
Japanese speakers |
Shanghai Guangci Hospital
Affiliated with Ruijin Hospital
197 Ruijin Er Rd
Tel: 6466 4483 |
Ren'ai Hospital
133 Caoxi Lu
Tel: 6468 8888 |
Shanghai No. 1 People’s Hospital
Internationa Medical Centre
585 Jiu Long Lu
Tel: 6306 9485 (Appointments)
Tel: 6306-9480 (Administration)
Fax: 6306 9484 |
IMCC First People Hospital
85 Wu Jin Rd
Hong Kou
Tel: 6303 9480 |
Shanghai Medical University
Children's Hospital
183 Feng Lin Lu
Pudong
Tel: 5404 71 29 |
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Western Clinics and Joint Ventures
| Addresses: |
|
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Shanghai Centre Medical & Dental Centers
ParkwayHealth
203-4 West Retail Plaza
1376 Nanjing Xi Rd
Hong Qiao Medical Center
Medical and Dental Services
2258 Hong Qiao Lu
(near Hong Qiao Marriott Hotel)
Tomorrow Square International
Medical & Surgical Center
389, Level 4 Nanjing Xi Lu, Tomorrow Square (same building as the JW Marriott Hotel)
Jin Qiao Medical & Dental Center
51 Hongfeng Lu Jin Qiao
Pudong
ParkwayHealth Specialty & Inpatient Center
Sp170 Danshui Lu, 2/3 Floor
(Near the corner of Danshui Lu and Xinye Lu, near Xintiandi)
Mandarine City Medical Centre
Suite 30, 788 Hong Xu Road
Chengdu Medical Center
Chengdu No. 1 People's Hospita
18 Wan Xiang North Road, Fan Xiong Boulevard (formerly known as
Fu Cheng Boulevard)
South High-Tech Zone, Chengdu
|
Shanghai United Family Hospital
#1139 Xian Xia Lu
Changning District
Tel: 5133 1900 (appointments)
Tel: 5133 1999 (emergency)
Shanghai Racquet Club
Ground Floor Clubhouse
Lane 555 JinFeng Lu Huacao Town
Minhang
Tel: 2201 0995 (appointments) |
Shanghai East International Medical Center
551 South Pudong Lu
Tel: 5879 9999
Website
|
Shanghai First People' S Hospital
International Medical Care Center
585 Jiulong Lu
Tel: 5324 3852 |
Huashin Worldwide Medical Center (HWMC)
Website
12, Wulumuqi Zhong Rd
Tel: 6248 3986
Fax: 6249 8476 |
Dr Anderson & Partners
Rm 1001, 1o F, D Block
New Century Plaza
48 Xing Yi Lu
Hongggiao
Tel: 6279 3263 |
New Pioneer International Medical Center
2/F, Ge Ru Building
910 Hengshan Rd
XU Hui
Tel: 6469 3898
Fax: 6469 3897 |
SOS International Hospital
Unit E-G, 22/F Sun Tong Infoport Plaza
55 Huaihai Road (W)
Admin Tel (86) (21) 5298 9538
Admin Fax (86) (21) 5298 9539
Alarm Tel (86) (21) 6295 0099
Alarm Fax (86) (21) 5298 9096
|
CanAm Int'l Medical Center Shanghai
966 Huaihai Zhong Lu, near Shaanxi Nan Lu
Tel: 5403 9133
Fax: 5403 8978
Website |
Global Health Care
Rm 302, Kerry Centre
1515 Nanjing Xi Lu
Tel: 5298 6339
Fax: 5298 6993
Mobile: 136 8188 8833
Website |
International Medical Care
Centre of Shanghai
First People's Hospital
585 Jiulong Lu
Tel: 6324 3852
|
Sino United Health
Rm 601, Shanghai Center
1376 Nanjing Xi Lu
Tel: 6279 8920 |
United Asia Huashun
Medical Service
13/F, Foreign Guest Building
Huashan Hospital
12 Wulumuqi Zhong Lu
Tel: 6248 8213
Fax: 6248 8176
|
Bioscor Shanghai Clinic
Hair Regrowth, Skin Management
Dental Services
no 5, Lane 89, Xingguo Lu
Tel: 6431 8899
Website |
Shanghai Chen Xin Hospital
9F-18 F, Chen Xin Hospital
Tel: 6225 3456
Fax: 6211 4451
Website |
Shanghai Spinal & Sports Clinic
Website
Level 9, Chen Xin Hospital
937 Yan An Xi Rd
Tel: 5213 0008 |
Shanghai East International Medical Center (SEIMC)
551 South Pudong Road
Tel: (86 21) 5879-9999 Ext 2663
Fax: (86 21) 6887-1189
Website |
|
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First Aid/CPR/Home & Safety Training
| Address: |
ParkwayHealth and Dental Centers
Tel: 6279-7688 (Shanghai Centre)
Tel: 6405-5788 (Hongqiao)
Website |
Shanghai East International Medical Center (SEIMC)
courses for mums and ayis
551 South Pudong Road
Tel: 5879-9999
email
Website
|
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See also Training Courses for Ayis
Health Specialists
Dentists
| Addresses |
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Shanghai Centre Medical & Dental Centers
ParkwayHealth
203-4 West Retail Plaza
1376 Nanjing Xi Rd
Hong Qiao Medical Center
Medical and Dental Services
2258 Hong Qiao Lu
(near Hong Qiao Marriott Hotel)
Jin Qiao Medical & Dental Center
51 Hongfeng Lu Jin Qiao
Pudong
|
Shanghai Kosei Dental Hospital
No. 666 Changle Lu
Tel: 6247 7000
Fax: 6247 6193
Japanese joint venture
Email |
Arrail Dental
Unit 204, Lippo Plaza
222 Huaihai Zhong Lu
Tel: 5396 6538
Fax: 5396 5971
Website |
Dr Harriet Jin's Dental Surgery
Rm 17C Sun Tong Infoport Plaza
No. 55 Huai Hai Rd (W)
Tel: 5298 9799
Fax: 5298 9799
Email |
Tokushinkai Dental Clinic
(Japanese)
Website
4 branches
Hongqiao Clinic
Tel: 5208 0208
Jing An clinic
Tel;386 Dagu Rd
Tel: 6340 0290
Jingquiao Clinic
160 Lan'an Rd
Tel: 5030 7858 |
Orthodontics Asia, Lujiazui Lu
168 Lujiazui Lu
Tel: 5047 6878
Orthodontics Asia, Nanjing Lu
388 Nanjing Xi Lu
Tel: 6359 9359
Orthodontics Asia, Tianping Lu
245 Tianping Lu
Tel: 6473 7733 |
Sino-Canadian Dental Clinic
Shanghai No. 9 People's Hospital
639 Zhizhaoyi Rd
Tel: 6313 8341 ext. 5279 |
Cidi Dental Clinic
Room 706, 495 Jiangning Lu
Tel: 5115 4575
Website |
Bioscor Shanghai Clinic
Hair Regrowth, Skin Management, Dental Services
no 5, Lane 89, Xingguo Lu
Tel: 6431 8899
Website |
DUZ Dental Clinic
28 D, East Building
Xin An Plaza
200 Zhenning Lu
Tel: 6247 3247, 6248 9927 |
Liwei Dental
13 B, 993 Nanjing Xi Lu
Tel: 6271 5707, 6271 5870
|
Garden Dental Clinic
41 Yongjia Lu
Tel: 6445 6099
Fax: 5456 0805
Website |
DDS Dental Care,
Huai Hai Lu
B1-05 Peregrine Plaza
1325 Huai Hai Middle Rd.
Tel: 5465 2678
Fax: 5465 0582
Website
DDS Dental Care Shiji Da Dao
B 1, POS Plaza Building, 1600 Shiji Da Dao
Tel: 6876 0409
Fax: 5456 2311
DDS Dental Care Jinhui Lu
Suit 2, 85 Jinhui Lu
Tel: 6406 7387
Fax: 5456 2311
Website |
Shanghai Shukang Stomatology Hospital
7th floor, Shukang Hospital
185 Pu An Rd (at Huaihai Rd) |
| |
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Dermatologist
| Addresses |
Shanghai Skin Disease & STD Hospital
196 Wuyi Rd
Tel: 6252 2721 |
ParkwayHealth Specialty & Inpatient Center
Sp170 Danshui Lu, 2/3 Floor
(Near the corner of Danshui Lu and Xinye Lu, near Xintiandi) |
Pudong Branch:
Shanghai Skin Disease & STD Center of Punan Hospital
Tel: 5889 2700 |
Bioscor Shanghai Clinic
Hair Regrowth, Skin Management, Dental Services
no 5, Lane 89, Xingguo Lu
Tel: 6431 8899
Website |
|
Ear Nose Throat Specialist
| Addresses |
Eye, Ear Nose & Throat Hospital (EENT)
Zhongshan Hospital
Fudan University Medical Center
180 Fenglin Rd
Tel: 6404 1990 |
|
Eye Specialist
| Addresses: |
American Opticians
Room 804, Hui Jin Da Sha
515 Han Kou Lu
Tel: 6360 4784 |
Shanghai Ocular Clinic (Main)
225 Changde Rd
Tel: 6217 9251 |
Sino-American Ocular Clinic
12 Central Wulumuqi Rd
Tel: 6248 9999 x1990 |
Shanghai Peace Eye Hospital
61 Yiminhe Rd (Hongkou District)
Tel: 5589 0118
State-of-the-art private hospital |
Eye Clinic of Huangpu District
460 Tibet Rd (S)
Tel: 5382 1270 |
Shanghai Ocular Center
380 Kangding Rd
Tel: 6271 7733 |
|
Gastroenterologist
| Addresses |
| Parkway Health
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Specialty & Inpatient Center
Sp170 Danshui Lu, 2/3 Floor
(Near the corner of Danshui Lu and Xinye Lu, near Xintiandi)
|
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Gynecologist/Obstetrician
| Website: |
| Listing of OB-GYN and Maternity Hospitals |
http://www.sh.com >Home>Medical Service>Special Practice>Women |
| Addresses |
International Peace Maternity
and Child Health Hospital
910 Hengshan Lu
Tel: 6407 9476 < |
Shanghai First Women and Baby Hospital
536 Changle Road
Tel: 5403 5335 |
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Specialty & Inpatient Center
Sp170 Danshui Lu, 2/3 Floor
(Near the corner of Danshui Lu and Xinye Lu, near Xintiandi) |
Shanghai United Family Hospital and Clinics
Birthing Center
Tel: 6291 1635
Fax: 6291 1637
Email |
American-Sino OB/Gyn Service
16/F New Blue Building
in Huashan Hospital
12 Central Urumqi Rd
Tel: 6249 3246 (8am-8pm)
Tel: 2288 2373 (24 hrs)
Website |
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Hearing Aid
|
New Wave - European Hearing Aid Clinic
European Hearing Solutions
Yujia Building, Room 11A1
1336 Huashan Road
200052 Changning
Tel: 5238 8137/ 13761936837, 15000894236
|
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Orthopedic Surgeon
| Addresses |
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Specialty & Inpatient Center
Sp170 Danshui Lu, 2/3 Floor
(Near the corner of Danshui Lu and Xinye Lu, near Xintiandi) |
Shanghai Spinal & Sports Clinic
Website
Level 9, Chen Xin Hospital
937 Yan An Xi Rd
Tel: 5213 0008 |
|
Pediatrician
| Addresses |
Paediatric Hospital Shanghai
Medical University
Foreigner’s Clinic
Tel: 6403 7371
House calls can be made before 8:30 p.m. |
Pudong Children’s Hospital
F3, 1678 Dongfang Lu
Pudong
Tel: 5873 2020
|
Shanghai United Family Hospital and Clinics
Tel: 6291 1635
Fax: 6291 1637
Website |
Shanghai Children's Hospital
Medical Center
183 Fenglin Rd
Tel: 5452 4666
Shanghai Children's Hospital
Jing An
No. 24 Lane 1400
Beijing Rd (N)
Tel: 6247 4880 |
Shanghai Medical University
Pediatrics Hospital Foreign Expatriate Ward
183 Fenglin Lu
Tel: 6403 7371 |
Shanghai Pudong Children's Heart and Thorax Surgical Dept.
532 Lao Shan Rd (E)
Pudong
Tel: 5835 9353 |
|
Psychological Services/Counselling
Shanghai has several local psychiatry centers, but the doctors and therapists generally don't have a high level of English or an understanding of expatriate issues. For this, it is best to go to the Western clinics that have their own list of therapists and psychiatrists who are expat-focused. A new psychological counseling hotline has recently opened, Lifeline, which has trained staffers who will refer callers to the appropriate resources.
In addition, the major international schools either have a psychologist on staff, or have access to one. This is particularly useful in the wake of traumatic events that affect the community (as when a beloved tennis teacher died) and the world (9-11 and the Iraq war).
| Addresses |
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Shanghai Centre Medical & Dental Centers
ParkwayHealth
203-4 West Retail Plaza
1376 Nanjing Xi Rd
Hong Qiao Medical Center
Medical and Dental Services
2258 Hong Qiao Lu
(near Hong Qiao Marriott Hotel)
|
Psychotherapy
Room 509 International Artist Factory
Lane 210 Tai Kang Lu
Tel: 13681705544
Email |
Community Center Shanghai
Pudong
1118 Ming Yue Road, A9
(near Jinqiao Carrefour, opposite Concordia International School)
Jinqiao)
Shanghai 201206
Tel: 5031-0390
Marriage Counselling
Marriage Encounter Weekends
Tel: (021) 5858 9906 or 1376 431
Lionel & Isabelle
Email
|
| LifeLine Shanghai
Shanghai United Family Hospital and Clinics
Tel: 6291 1635
Fax: 6291 1637
Email
Admin Tel: 6279-7943
Providing free confidential emotional support and information.
10am -10pm, seven days per week - (21) 6279-8990.
www.lifelineshanghai.com
Volunteer information, contact Email |
|
Radiologist/X-Ray Services
| Addresses |
Shanghai United Family Hospital
and Clinics (opening soon)
Tel: 6291 1635
Fax: 6291 1637
Website |
Ruijin Hospital
197 Ruijin Er Lu
Shanghai 20002
Tel: 021 6437 0045 x 668101 |
|
Respiratory Specialists
| Addresses |
Shanghai Pulmonary Disease Hospital
507 Zheng Min Rd (at Guo Ding Rd), Yangpu District
Tel: 6511 5006 |
Shanghai Thorax Hospital
241 Huaihai Rd (W)
Tel: 6282 1990 |
|
Vascular Surgeon
| Addresses |
Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
530 Lingling Rd
Tel: 6417 1226
|
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Blood Testing (HIV, Malaria, Blood Group)
| Addresses |
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Shanghai Centre Medical & Dental Centers
ParkwayHealth
203-4 West Retail Plaza
1376 Nanjing Xi Rd
Hong Qiao Medical Center
Medical and Dental Services
2258 Hong Qiao Lu
(near Hong Qiao Marriott Hotel)
|
Shanghai Blood Center
1191 Hongqiao Rd
Tel: 62758027 |
Shanghai United Family Hospital and Clinic
Tel: 6291 1635
Fax: 6291 1637
Website |
|
Blood Banks
| Addresses: |
| Storing Own Blood for Surgery
Shanghai Blood Center
1191 Hongqiao Rd
Tel: 6275 8027 |
| Blood Enquiries on Blood Donation
Shanghai Blood Center
1191 Hongqiao Rd
Tel: 6275 8027 |
| Blood Hotline on General Information on Blood Donation
Shanghai Blood Center
1191 Hongqiao Rd
Tel: 6275 8027 |
|
Allergy/Foodstuff Emergencies
If you or a family member has a food allergy, you will need to make an emergency plan upon arrival, with your selected medical provider. Local hospitals can handle this, but language is a problem, so rather than waste precious time explaining during a crisis, it is best to have the plan mapped out ahead of time. At this time you should also double-check that all medicines required are available, and if not, plan on bringing what you will need.
Shanghai's urban pollution, exacerbated by traffic and coal-burning in some areas in the winter, is bad news for asthmatics and those with dust allergies, who usually elect to live in the Pudong or Minhang suburbs, where the air is cleanest. When dining be aware that MSG is used often in local dishes and may cause allergic reactions especially for people with astma.
Nebulizers/Air Purifiers: See Shopping: Allergy Control Products
Many air purifier and nebulizers are made in Shanghai, and available here inexpensively.
| Addresses |
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Shanghai Centre Medical & Dental Centers
ParkwayHealth
203-4 West Retail Plaza
1376 Nanjing Xi Rd
Hong Qiao Medical Center
Medical and Dental Services
2258 Hong Qiao Lu
(near Hong Qiao Marriott Hotel)
|
Shanghai No. 1 Dispensary
616 Nanjing Rd (E)
Tel:6322 4567 |
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Maternity
While it is true that a few years back expats in Shanghai used to fly to Hong Kong, Singapore or back home to give birth, that is no longer the case. Shanghai now boasts a number of international hospitals that offer 5-star hotel-like services at their maternity wards, with English-speaking doctors and nurses, as well as local hospitals with very experienced doctors that offer both VIP wards as well as normal care. Several VIP wards cater to foreigners and have a couple of doctors who speak English as well as one or two nurses in their staff.
However, at local hospitals, expect little English and vast cultural differences, from a more prevalent use of c-sections to less support for breastfeeding. This can be particularly scary if you deliver prematurely, as local hospitals can take a different approach to bonding with your child, making access infrequent and irregular. International hospitals come at a price, however, which you will need to ensure your insurance policy will cover.
| Addresses: |
International Hospitals |
American-Sino OB/GYN/Pediatrics Services
American-Sino OB/GYN and Pediatric Services offers a full range of women’s and children’s health care services by qualified medical staff. The in- and out-patient facilities are located in the French Concession area. OB/GYN inpatient is done at Huashan Hospital in the French Concession (a local hospital).
Tel: (21) 6210-2299
Email
Website |
Parkway Health
At Parkway Health comprehensive women’s healthcare services are offered by internationally board certified OB/GYN specialists. ParkwayHealth offers a full range of obstetric services for expecting moms during pregnancy and delivery. The inpatient ward is at the Danshui clinic in Xintiandi. Parkway does not have a NICU. Preterm babies delivered here need to be transferred out to the NICU of a local hospital.
24-hour phone line: (21) 64455999
Website |
Shanghai United Family Hospital
This hospital offers full-service, international standard facilities and a highly qualified medical staff. All doctors and nurses speak English. Direct billing to over 20 global insurance companies is available. Best maternity ward in town. Only international hospital with a NICU in its premises. Expected to open Pudong inpatient services in 2012.
1139 Xianxia Lu
24-hour phone line: (21) 2216-3999 |
Shanghai East International Medical Center
This Pudong facility offers family medicine, pediatrics, as well as OB/GYN outpatient and inpatient services. Direct billing to most major international insurers is available.
24-hour phone line: (21) 5879-9999 / 150-0019-0899
Email
Website |
WorldPath Clinic International
Located in Lujizui, this clinic provides a wide range of services, including OB/GYN and Pediatrics outpatient services. Deliveres are done at Huashan Hospital in the French Concession (a local hospital). Expected to open an in-patient unitl in Pudong in 2012.
Tel: (21) 2020 7888
Email
Website |
| Local Hospitals |
International Peace Maternity and Child Health Hospital of the China Welfare Institute
1961 Huashan Lu (or 910 Hengshan Lu)
VIP Appointments: 6447 0399
VIP Info: 6407 4887
Website |
Obstetrics and Gynecology Hospital of Fudan University
Rated one of China’s best ob-gyn hospitals.
419 Fangxie Lu, 6345 5050
Website |
Fudan University Children's Hospital
In- and out-patient care for children, includes a range of specialities and emergency care services, including the best NICU unit in Shanghai. Most local and international hospital will transfer their premies for care to Fudan.
399 Wanyuan Lu
24-hour phone line: (21) 6493 1507 |
Pudong First Maternal and Child Care Service Centre
599Hongfeng Road, Pudong
Tel: 021-50306088
Website |
Shanghai Children’s Hospital (affiliated with Jiao Tong University)
In- and out-patient care for children,
24, Lane 1400, Beijing Xi Lu, 6247 4880 |
La Leche League
HP: 139-1712-4540
(Leaders Judit, Melanie, Emy, and Ursula)
Email
Email or call for information on Toddler meetings or Chinese language meetings |
La Leche League Pudong meetings are on the third Tuesday of the month, 11-1 in the Clubhouse of the Emerald Compound.
La Leche League Puxi Meetings are held on the second Wednesday of every month, 10-12 pm at the Mongolian Tent of Shanghai United Family Hospital, Changning District. |
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As mentioned above, when deciding where to give birth, expatriates in Shanghai should double check with their insurance policy. Both prenatal and post-natal services can be very expensive at international hospitals and can well exceed many insurance policies’ limits. VIP wards tend to be more reasonably priced.
In a nutshell, before committing to give birth at any one single hospital, expatriates need to do their due diligence: from the detailed costs of prenatal care and delivery, the availability of packages, and their insurance coverage, to the level of care the different hospitals can offer you in the event of emergencies, including NICU facilities and the sort. There are lots of choices nowadays and a pregnant woman giving birth far away from family and friends needs to be comfortable and feel secure whatever her decision.
The information in this section was compiled by Bumps & Babes - the parenting site offering parents-to-be and parents of young children resources and information about giving birth, baby-care and family life in Shanghai.
Bumps & Babes also offers you the possibility to connect with other parents, experts, and professional speakers both on its website, and through the regular talks it organizes in Puxi and Pudong, ensuring you have all the answers you need to deliver safely and care for your family in Shanghai.
Pharmacies
Obtaining Western medicine can be a challenge in Shanghai - even over-the-counter medication. China has strict rules on importing medicine, and it is not unusual for the Western pharmacies attached to the clinics to have limited medication, or standard medication at very high prices.
Many expatriates bring back over-the-counter medication they might need. Particularly, children's cough and cold medicines and allergy medicines. Of course, you can get your family or friends back home to post these to you. Alternatively, give Chinese medicine a try.
| Addresses |
Watson’s
789 Central Huaihai Rd
Tel: 6474 4775
Watsons
787 Huaihai Zhong Lu
Tel: 6474 4775"
Watsons
Kerry Everbright City
218 Tianmu Xi Lu
Tel: 6354 5826
Watsons
1038 Nanjing Xi Lu
Tel: 6272 9303 |
Shanghai No. 1 Dispensary
616 Nanjing Rd (E)
Tel: 6322 4567 |
Huashan Foreign Expatriate Dispensary
12 Central Wulumuqi Rd
Tel: 6248 9999 |
Huadong Hospital Foreign Expatriate Dispensary
221 Yan An Xi Lu
Tel: 62483180 |
Ruijin Hospital Foreign Expatriate Dispensary
197 Ruijin Er Lu
Tel: 6437 0045 |
Herbalist Store
Retail shop for alternative health, herbal medicine and nutritional supplies
D-Mall, underneath People's Square, Shanghai, China
Tel: 6390 6796 or 6528 0691 |
Shanghai Jinjiang Drugstore
856 Huaihai Zhong Lu
Tel: 5404 7074 |
Shanghai Wukang Drugstore
1848 Huaihai Zhong Lu
Tel: 6437 2763r |
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
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Alternative Treatments
Traditional Chinese medicine is available in Shanghai through several established TCM hospitals and Parkway Health (with an English-speaking doctor). TCM is a holistic approach to health care that is being embraced in the West, and some if its practices, like acupuncture, are increasingly accepted in Western medicine.
It is useful to do some research and go to an English speaking practitioner the first few times, so that you understand the process. If you do decide to go to a local practitioner, make sure they are recommended.
Health concerns with unreliable TCM doctors include hygiene, sterilization of needles for acupuncture (even packaged needles may have been recycled), and herbal medications.
Photo: enterAsia Art
| Info: |
Shanghai Traditional
Chinese Medicine Hospital
274 Central Zhijiang Rd
Tel: 5663 9828
Branch: No. 1, Lane 67, Shimen No. 1 Rd
|
Shanghai TCM Literature
Museum and Clinic
156 Ruijin No. 2 Rd
Tel: 6433 5009 |
| Shu Guang Hospital
185 Pu An Rd
Tel: 6326 1650
|
Fu Lin Tang Xinyidai
Unit A, House 1, Lane 123
Xingye Rd, South Block, Xintiandi
Tel: 6384 5987
Upscale, stylish Chinese medicine shop |
Shanghai Chinese Medicine Clinic
no 1, lane 65. Shimen Yo Lu
Tel: 6258 8203 |
Body & Soul - the TCM Clinic
Apt 5, 14/F, An Ji Plaza
1 Jianguoxin Lu
near Xizang Nan Lu
Tel: 5101 9262
Website |
Chinese Medicine Professional
2/F, Tong Han Chun
20 Yuyuan Xin Lu
Mobile: 138 1826 0303 |
Dr Li’s Chinese Medicine Clinic
Room C, 5/F, No 28
Lane 18 Hongqiao Lu
Tel: 3424 1989
Mobile: 139 1674 1580
Website |
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Call for locations
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Acupuncture
There are literally hundreds of acupuncturists throughout Shanghai, and the best are booked ahead for months. Acupuncturists can be found at the traditional Chinese medicine hospitals, acupuncture departments of universities teaching TCM, and at the locations below:
Addresses: |
ParkwayHealth
Phone: 6445 5999
Website
Call for locations |
Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture Department
274 Central Zhijiang Rd
Tel: 6417 1226
|
Alcohol Treatment and Support
For some expatriates, the pressures and stresses of expat life are the catalyst for a downward spiral with alcohol. Shanghai hosts a chapter of Alcoholics Anonymous for those with drinking problems, and Al-Anon for families.
| Addresses |
Shanghai University of Traditional Chinese Medicine
Acupuncture Department
274 Central Zhijiang Rd
Tel: 6417 1226 |
Parkway Health and Dental Centres
Dr. Joseph Yu
Hongqiao:
Mandarine City
Unit 30, 788 Hongxu Lu
Tel: 6405 5788 |
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