Switzerland:
basic insurance generally covers treatment abroad only in emergencies or narrowly defined exceptions. [待确认]
Draft copy, not yet signed off. Unconfirmed details are highlighted.
Health insurance and costs of a medical stay in China
Planned treatment in China is usually not covered by public health insurance in European countries such as Switzerland and Germany. Private and international policies vary, and travel insurance usually excludes planned treatment. Always confirm coverage with your insurer in writing before deciding.
Public health insurance
Germany:
statutory insurance generally does not cover treatment outside the EU, EEA and Switzerland; an exception exists if treatment meeting accepted medical standards is only available there (§ 18 SGB V, BMG).
Other countries:
rules differ – ask your insurer.
Private and international insurance
Some policies cover treatment worldwide, often only with pre-authorisation. Some insurers have direct-billing arrangements with individual Chinese hospitals [待确认]. Check before you travel.
Travel insurance
Standard travel insurance usually excludes planned treatment abroad. Check whether emergencies during your stay and repatriation are covered.
How to proceed
- Get the hospital's cost estimate (we translate it)
- Ask your insurer in writing what, if anything, is covered
- Decide only after you have a written answer
- Keep all invoices and receipts
What you pay for
Medical costs (directly to the hospital), our service fee and travel costs. Cost overview
Frequently asked questions
Does international private health insurance cover treatment in China?
Some international policies cover treatment worldwide, often with pre-authorisation. Check your policy and ask for written confirmation before you travel.
Which receipts should I keep?
The written quote, the hospital's official invoices or receipts (fapiao, 发票), the discharge summary and proof of payment – originals and translations.
Organisational consultation, not medical advice.
Medical disclaimer: VIP Cure Trip is not a medical provider and does not diagnose or treat. The content on this page is general information and does not replace advice from a qualified physician. All medical decisions are made by the treating doctors. In an emergency, call 144 (Switzerland) or 112 (EU). Full medical disclaimer
Sources
- German Federal Ministry of Health – Health insurance abroad · 2026-11-10
- § 18 SGB V (Germany) · 2026-11-10