Medical care:

Quality of health care varies, depending on where you go and how much you spend. The China-Japan Friendship Hospital is equipped to receive foreigners; prices are high There is also a very good maternity hospital in the FAW district. Number One Hospital near Cultural Square is for Chinese, the standard of cleanliness and care at A&E seems also good. Other hospitals become less savory the smaller they become. Stay away from outpatient clinics and small private surgeries, or if you have to go to one be aware of what they should be doing and decide at that time if you are willing to accept their help. Do not be afraid to say no to a friend who is trying to help by taking you to one of these places, even if they say that the doctor is a family friend. They may not be clean or qualified - just grunt on your crutches or wince and crawl until you find a passably real physician.

Do not rely too much on traditional medicine. Do not be tempted to give up on your western prescribed medicine.

Availability of medication and personal care/hygiene products:

A large variety of western style medications, including an impressive array of modern antibiotics, can be bought over the counter at any of the many pharmacies. Personal care and hygiene products are also readily available, with the notable exception of underarm deodorant, which can only be found now in the larger department stores or in the friendship store.

Hospitals keep stocks of other specialised medicines. Do not self medicate; seek advice. Some medicines can be dangerous when taken in combination. If possible you should choose familiar western foreign brand names, many are available.

Many locally made items, particularly contraceptives, are unreliable.

Physician, hospital, clinic recommendations:

For a businessperson with full health insurance it is recommended to use the services of the China-Japan Friendship Hospital if in need. You may need to check with your insurer. Otherwise inexpensive health insurance can be bought locally that will cover most of your expenses if you are hospitalised in one of the other large standard hospitals. If the condition is serious you might consider transfer to Beijing or Shanghai, where there are western doctors, or possibly repatriation.

There is a western style dentist clinic attached to the China-Japan Friendship Hospital that has been recommended. Be wary of street corner dental clinics, they are not clean.

Antibiotics and other western style medicines are easy to find. Seek timely sound medical advice.

Immunisations and prevention of area-related health problems:

The Provincial Quarantine Bureau (the offices where you will have your medical examination for your work permit and visa extension) is equipped to give vaccinations. Also, the China-Japan Friendship Hospital can offer this service. You should consult your own physician before leaving for China about immunisation requirements. There are local endemic diseases, particularly hepatitis.

Maintenance of medical records/prescriptions:

When you visit a hospital to see a doctor you will be given a medical record. You should not lose it. It is your responsibility. If you do lose it, however, you can get another one, but it will be clean, without mention of your medical history.

Be careful what and where you eat. Many locals who work in the food industry do not pay attention to hygiene. Eat cooked food. Prepare your own self cooked food well. Wash or peel all fruit and vegetables. Stay away from meat, especially chicken, during hot weather, unless you can be certain. Drink only boiled or bottled water.

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