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Shenzhen Health and Insurance News |
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Shenzhen Health Insurance |
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Shenhzen is the gate way into Southern China. With a key strategic position in China, it has become the second busiest port in the country and the wealthiest city in a 'Special Economic Zone' (SEZ), due to large foreign investment in the city � estimated at US$ 30 billion since the 1970's.
This once small fishing village, Shenzen has developed into a vibrant hard working city over the last four decades, becoming the financial hub for south China. Vast economic expansion has meant the city has developed its infrastructure � some of the finest hospitals in China are now situated in Shenzhen.
Shenzhen is home to some of the best public and private healthcare facilities in mainland China. As a commercial hub with many foreign nationals and a migrant population, Shenzhen requires numerous medical care facilities in this vastly growing city. The demand for public and private healthcare facilities has increased over the decades, and the supply of international healthcare facilities and public government run hospitals needs to cater for the 4 million residents in the city.
Much of demand for international healthcare facilities in Shenzhen has been driven by expats who expect a high standard of medical care; equivalent to facilities which would be available in their home nation. Private healthcare has improved in the city over the last decade, with the development of large scale hospitals and advancement in the medical treatment available within healthcare facilities. The Ministry of Health in China has encouraged development of healthcare facilities in the city � The Third People's Hospital in Shenzhen is currently being planned.
Due to Shenzhen�s increasing expatriate community and a growing number of wealthier middle class Chinese, it has meant the demand for western style hospitals has grown, leading to Shenzhen's Second People's Hospital being opened. The wealth of Shenzhen and its population has grown in recent years and also their expectations of international healthcare facilities being readily available with modern equipment and highly trained professionals.
Shenzhen People's Hospital recently opened, with 1,100 beds and 29 wards. The hospital is equipped with high-tech diagnostic equipment; MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) and spiral CT (CAT scan), which are some the most advanced in the world. Within Shenzhen, the Shenzhen No.2 People's Hospital has the largest number of key and specialized medical units.
The Beijing University Shenzhen Hospital is regarded as the finest hospital in the city and is the most frequently visited hospital by expats in Shenzhen. The Beijing University Shenzhen Hospital has some the best medical professionals and cutting-edge facilities in China, with US$450 million being invested into the healthcare provider. Because the hospital provides the best medical professionals and facilities it can be expensive to seek medical treatment in this hospital; it is recommended you have Shenzhen expatriate health insurance.
In the past, expats who needed medical treatment would take the short journey to Hong Kong to consult a doctor. Shenzhen is now able to accommodate the requirements of foreign nationals ensuring they receive medical treatment that is up to international standards.
International SOS established itself in China in 1989 and 2001 opening a clinic in Shenzhen. It provides medical staff who can speak a range of languages including: English, French, German and Chinese. International SOS clinic has a global presence and caters to expatriates, offering medical services such as vaccination, consultation, out of hour�s emergency visits and the arrangement of medical evacuation. If you are not a member, you are required to pay for all medical treatment.
The public healthcare provided by the Chinese government for Chinese nationals in Shezhen is adequate. However, foreign nations are required to pay for any treatment received in public hospitals and clinics. You are advised that the government sets the price for public healthcare facilities, and it can cost from US$ 100-200 for a consultation. The majority of the better qualified medical professionals are enticed to work in the private sector with larger salaries. Expatriates may find public healthcare in Shenzhen overwhelming - crowded and long waiting periods - therefore it is recommended you have Shenzhen international health insurance for your visit to the city. This will ensure that you can afford treatment in an international healthcare facility that supplies medical care of an international standard.
The cost of receiving medical treatment in Shenzhen�s improved private healthcare facilities has grown in recent years, due to the enhancement of medical facilities and the populace becoming increasingly affluent - private healthcare providers have taken full advantage of the situation by increasing prices. As an expatriate or short term visitor to Shenzhen it is important to arrange Shenzhen international health insurance for the duration of your time in the city, protecting you from the high cost of any medical treatment you may require.
There has been an issue in some medical facilities in Shenzhen, with doctors prescribing expensive medication which is not necessary for the patient. Expatriates and foreigners are prime targets, because they are considered wealthy and willing to pay for medication they believe will help them. It is advised you seek medical treatment in an established health care facility; International SOS Clinic, Beijing University Shenzhen Hospital and Shenzhen People�s Hospital are the top choices, as these medical facilities have a reputation for quality and western medical professionals who will explain comprehensively the medication/or treatment that is recommended to you.
There are no major health concern issues to be aware of in Shenzhen. You should be cautious where you eat, as some establishments practice poor levels of hygiene which can result in contaminated food, causing illnesses like - diarrhea. Within large cities like Shenzhen, the outbreak of illness and disease can spread rapidly; it is advised you are diligent in taking care your own health.
China has been prone to Avian Influenza (H5N1) and Swine Influenza (H1N1) due to living standards and lifestyles. If an outbreak occurs, it is advised you follow government guidelines and avoid any situation where infection may present a risk. Also with urbanization, there are risks from crime and traffic; it is advised you be vigilant when using transportation in Shenzhen and take sensible measures to avert dangerous situation � mugging, robbery and accidents.
If you are an expatriate relocating to Shenzhen, it is important to you have medical insurance cover to avoid the potential high cost of medical treatment in China. Medical treatment in Shenzhen varies from small clinics to private hospitals, offering a range of health needs and treatments; it does however come with a range of costs. While the quality of medical care at international and well-renowned Chinese run healthcare facilities is first class, it is expensive. If you are unfortunate enough to need critical life saving surgery though, the cost of such treatment, in a top private hospital in Shenzhen, may amount to thousands of dollars.
When taking out international medical insurance it is important you include medical evacuation. Even though the standards of medical care in many Shenzhen hospitals are excellent, there is always the potential you will need specialist treatment in another country or require special transportation to your home nation. By protecting yourself and your family with international medical insurance in Shenzhen, it will ensure you are not saddled with the potential financial burden of unforeseen medical treatment while in China - either as an expatriate or holiday maker.
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