Posted on Friday, February 11th, 2011 at 5:36 pm

China has become one of the most popular countries for study abroad students from all over the world. From the U.S.A. alone, over 13,000 students went to study abroad in China during the 2008/2009 academic year. China is currently ranked number 5 on the top destination countries visited by U.S. students, right after the UK, Italy, Spain and France.

Even though it has become such a popular destination, it is still important to consider a comprehensive medical insurance when traveling to China. While high quality western style medical facilities are available in some places, primarily in major cities, many locations especially in the rural area lack adequate facility and doctors and would not be able to provide more than the most basic treatments. If you have serious sicknesses or injuries it may be necessary for you to be transported long distances to another facility where you can be treated.

Hospitals and clinics in major tourist locations may be accustomed to providing services to non-Mandarin Chinese speakers and may also have English speaking staff on location. Many hospitals and clinics also have what is called “VIP wards” or “Gaogan bingfang “(高干病房) for foreigners. However, even in these VIP wards, there may still be some difficulty not only because of language differences but also cultural and regulatory procedures.

In case of a medical emergency, you may dial 120 (toll free) for an ambulance. However, Chinese ambulances have been known to be slow to arrive. Ambulance personnel may also have little or no medical training and can be ill-equipped. Many people end up taking a taxis or other form of available transportation to the nearest hospital instead.

A great choice for China study abroad insurance is called the Atlas Travel Medical Plan. The plan would provide medical coverage in case you get sick or injured while abroad. It would also cover medical evacuation if you need to be transported to a place where they are able to provide you with necessary treatment and also a 24/7 translation service over the phone in case you need help communicating with the doctor.

Posted by ahoontrakul

Originally from Thailand, Apinant grew up in the United States and has extensive international experience traveling throughout Asia, Australia, North America and Europe. He has lived, studied and worked abroad in China, England, Taiwan and Thailand. Apinant is a graduate of the University of Florida with a Masters in International Business and a Bachelors of Science in Business Management.