Medical records

What documents do Chinese hospitals require?

A practical document checklist for international patients requesting a hospital review, second opinion or treatment in China.

Reviewed 15 July 2026General information
Direct answer

Requirements vary by hospital and specialty, but most meaningful reviews begin with identity details, a concise medical history, current diagnosis, recent reports, original imaging and information about previous treatment and medication.

01

Identity and contact information

Prepare the patient's passport name, date of birth, nationality, contact details and an authorized family contact. Use the same name format across every document.

02

Clinical summary

Provide a chronological summary of symptoms, diagnosis, major procedures, treatment response, allergies and current medicines. Keep it concise enough for triage.

03

Reports, imaging and pathology

Include recent laboratory and imaging reports plus original DICOM files when available. Oncology enquiries may require pathology reports, molecular testing and later instructions for slides or tissue materials.

04

Translation and file organization

Preserve originals, translate essential documents consistently and use clear filenames with dates. Do not ship original pathology materials until the receiving institution gives written instructions.

Frequently asked questions

Do hospitals accept phone photographs of reports?

They may be insufficient, especially for imaging or multi-page records. Ask for the original PDF, DICOM or complete report.

Must every document be translated?

Not always. Start with the documents required for triage and confirm the hospital's language requirements before translating an entire archive.

Can I upload records through the initial contact form?

No. Begin with basic information and wait for an authorized record-transfer process.

Information, not professional advice

This guide explains general processes. Hospital requirements, entry rules, prices and individual circumstances vary. Confirm material decisions with the responsible hospital or authority.