Before you leave home
A) Insurance- what does it cover? How vigilant do I need to be?
You DO need to prepare your insurance before you leave home. China has some of the highest medical costs in the world. Therefore the insurance premiums are also high. Make sure that you check that your insurance policy covers you in China. Often they don’t.
B) Pre-departure strategies to consider:
n having sufficient prescriptions or names of prescriptions
n having details of illnesses or special needs
n having immunisations in due time
n having a medical check if necessary
C) Remember that many companies require you to have a medical check either before you leave home or when you arrive in China. This includes tests for AIDS. If you are found to have AIDS you will be asked to leave the country. If there is any chance you might have AIDS, have the test before you leave – it will give you peace of mind and help you avoid difficulties. Make sure you know the requirements of the medical test to ensure you have everything done.
Arriving in Shanghai – things to do in the first couple of weeks.
D) If you are here with a company it is likely that they will organise your medical check for you. If they don’t, ask them about it. You must have a medical check to have your visa approved. Medical checks usually take place at the Shanghai International Travel Healthcare Center. It is in the south-west of Shanghai. If you want to take a taxi, ask them to take you to “Hami Lu, Jing Bang Lu”. I’ve experimented getting here by a combination of metro and taxi, take the metro line 1 to Xujiahui then a taxi to the above address.
The medical check is a series of short tests , including eye tests, x-rays, blood tests and hearing tests. A doctor will also interview you and ask you about your medical history. Staff are experienced with foreigners and speak English.
E) You should also check details of your local hospital and doctor, and familiarise yourself with emergency numbers.
International clinics vs. Local clinics: the pros and cons
The beauty of the medical system in Shanghai is that you are presented with a wide range of choice. You will find many local and international clinics and also a lot which cater for expatriates.
P.S.
A list of recommended international clinics: (including price for consultation and immunizations)
download form:
http://www.shanghaiindex.com/e-info2.asp?lx=big&anid=32&action=show&Page=2
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