Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), jointly operated by the Chinese Academy of Medical Sciences and Peking Union Medical College (Tsinghua University), is consistently ranked as China’s number-one hospital. Its international department — sometimes referred to as the International Medical Center — provides a seamless entry point for foreign patients seeking the country’s highest standard of medical care.
Specialties and Expert Strengths
PUMCH excels across nearly every specialty, but is globally renowned for:
- Internal medicine / general practice — including geriatric and preventive care.
- Cardiovascular disease — among the best heart programs in Asia.
- Oncology — particularly thoracic and gynecologic cancers.
- Endocrinology and metabolism — especially diabetes and thyroid disorders.
- Neurology and neurosurgery — including stroke care and treatment.
- Reproductive medicine — IVF and fertility services.
- Orthopedic surgery — joint replacement and spine surgery.
International Medical Department
The PUMCH International Medical Center serves patients from over 100 countries. It provides a dedicated wing where doctors, nurses, and coordinators speak fluent English and the workflow is adapted for international visitors. Services include:
- Airport pickup and translation services on request.
- Bilingual medical records and discharge summaries.
- Coordination with embassies and international insurers.
- Billing in RMB and settlement support for overseas insurance.
Location and Contact
Address: No. 1, Courtyard 51, Beilu Street, Dongcheng District, Beijing 100730, China
Subway: Line 5 to Dongdan, Exit B; or Line 1 to Guomao, a 10-minute walk.
International Appointment Hotline: +86 10 8225 3200 (English available)
Website: www.pumc.edu.cn (English version available for the international department)
How to Make an Appointment
- Book in advance — contact the international department 1–2 weeks ahead via the English hotline or email.
- Bring your passport — required for registration and identification at every visit.
- Request an English-speaking doctor — the international team can pair you with physicians who treat patients in English.
- Ask for a bilingual report — imaging, lab results, and discharge summaries are typically available in both English and Chinese.
- Consider pre-payment — PUMC accepts direct billing with many international insurers and Alipay/WeChat Pay for out-of-pocket patients.
Because PUMCH is one of the world’s most prestigious hospitals, appointments can fill up quickly during peak seasons. Planning ahead is the single most important step for a smooth visit.
Costs and Insurance
PUMCH’s international department charges premium fees that reflect its reputation. Consultation fees are roughly ¥1,000-2,000, and a comprehensive checkup package runs ¥6,000-15,000 — well above standard public-hospital rates but below many private international clinics. The department bills directly with a wide network of international insurers; confirm your coverage and obtain pre-authorization before your visit.
What Sets PUMCH Apart
Few hospitals combine PUMCH’s clinical depth with its historical prestige — it was founded in 1921 by the Rockefeller Foundation and has trained generations of China’s medical leaders. For foreigners, the practical advantages are equally important: one of the country’s most experienced international departments, consistently bilingual documentation, and specialists who routinely handle complex cases referred from across Asia.
Common Questions
- How far ahead should I book? International department slots fill fast; book 2-4 weeks ahead.
- Can I get an English-speaking doctor? Yes — request one when booking.
- Is there a children’s international service? Yes, pediatric international care is available.