Medical costs are generally low, however, and most well-known general medicines are widely available.
Visitors are often advised to have vaccinations prior to departing for China; your government's website will list the recommendations currently in force.
Pharmacies
China has strict rules on the import of medicines and not all drugs commonly prescribed to westerners will be readily available. You are allowed to bring small amounts of prescription drugs into the country in your personal baggage. You should bring a copy of your prescription with you as customs officers may need to check it.
Chinese medicine is of course popular and Chinese remedies are readily available from the many stores in the city.
Update 11/09/2006
Expatriate health insurance in China
With so much to deal with before leaving your home country, (taxes, moving house, paperwork etc.) the careful planning of your expatriation to Shanghai is an essential step. As far as healthcare is concerned, your local social security scheme won’t be accompanying you to your host country and, once abroad, you might be surprised by the care system you find in China So, before leaving, make sure you have appropriate cover!
Cigna is one of the world's biggest international insurers with more than 30 years' experience in providing global health insurance across 200 countries and territories. They have access to more than 1.65 million hospitals, physicians, clinics and specialists worldwide.
Cigna Global's flexible plans are specifically designed for expats and globally mobile individuals who move to China. All their plans can be tailored to your individual requirements in China, always finding the right healthcare solution, whatever the situation and budget.
Getting a health insurance quote
Create your perfect plan with Cigna and combine the reassurance of comprehensive inpatient cover with the flexibility of optional extra benefits.
Click on the button to access the online tool and get a quote in 2 minutes.