Ruijin Hospital Shanghai: World-Class Medicine Meets Dedicated International Medical Department

Ruijin Hospital in Shanghai

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai is one of China’s leading hospitals, with the fourth highest rating nationally at A++, and accredited by Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine. Located in the beautiful French Concession of Shanghai, Ruijin Hospital in 1998 began offering foreign patients the finest in cutting-edge treatment and dedicated international services.

In this guide, we share everything you should know about getting care at Ruijin Hospital, from navigating the International Medical Department to understanding what specialties shine at Ruijin, the cost and payment options. Whether you are booking an appointment or checking out after treatment, we’ve got practical tips to ensure you enjoy a smooth patient experience here.

Essential Contact Information

Ruijin's Five Star Departments: Where You Get Treatment That Rivals Global Best

Hematology: World-Renowned Leukemia Treatment Originated Here

Dr. Wang Zhenyi’s apobiont method solved the conundrum of acute promyelocytic leukemia in 1980s cutting the death risk from near 100% to 10%. Now the disease is one of the most curable with over 90% shot at life as compared to those once death sentence. Today the Hematology Department under Academician Chen Saijuan inherits the baton. The department runs a corresponding stem cell transplantation center and holds the first-batch CAR-T cell therapy of the country.

International patients choose Ruijin Hospital Shanghai for hematology because treatment protocols match international standards at one-fifth the cost. The English-speaking medical team eliminates communication barriers that could prove dangerous in complex cancer treatment. The Hematology Department spans floors 18-20, housing the Chemotherapy Center, Clinical Medical Center, and Bone Marrow Transplant Unit. Patients from Southeast Asia, the Middle East, and beyond travel specifically here for world-class hematology treatment.

Endocrinology: China's Diabetes Research Hub Offers Personalized Management Plans

Academician Ning Guang leads Ruijin's National Metabolic Disease Clinical Research Center. Your diabetes treatment here leverages the world's largest Asian metabolic disease database. This enables personalized management based on genetic patterns specific to your background. The hospital established a one-stop thyroid diagnosis and treatment center in 2024, integrating ultrasound examination, needle biopsy, and surgical treatment in a single location. The department handles diabetes, thyroid disorders, obesity, and metabolic syndrome.

For international patients, Ruijin's endocrinology department offers practical advantages. Shanghai's rich food culture creates unique challenges for diabetes management—the department provides bilingual dietary guidance tailored to both Chinese and Western eating habits. Equipment includes cutting-edge photon-counting CT scanners. All reports are available in English translation. Post-discharge, patients access WeChat or email follow-up consultations.

Cardiology, Gastroenterology, Neurology: Comprehensive Care Covers Travel Health Emergencies

The Cardiology Department - Chinese Medical Ruijin Hospital Shanghai takes care of coronary heart disease, arrhythmia, and heart failure and uses interventional techniques such as coronary angiography and stent placement. The department’s 24/7 emergency green channel deals with cardiac emergencies immediately - ideal if you apt to have heart problems after a long-haul flight.

The Gastroenterology Department uses advanced endoscopic techniques to detect tumors before they develop and the team provides rapid diagnosis for traveler complaints such as upset stomach and food allergies.

Neurology services include a stroke diagnosis and treatment center plus expertise in Parkinson's disease and epilepsy. Long-haul flight complications like severe headaches receive professional assessment. General Surgery handles hepatobiliary-pancreatic surgery with liver transplant qualifications. All departments maintain English-speaking staff at Ruijin Hospital Shanghai.

Burn and Plastic Surgery: Pioneering Department Treats Complex Cases with Compassion

The Burns and Plastic Surgery Department holds legendary status in China. Dr. Qiu Falong's team achieved medical history in 1958 by treating a patient with 89% body burns. The Burn Center operates 69 beds and treats over 1,000 severe burn patients annually. It's almost like they've seen everything—burns represent just one specialty here.

For international patients, this department's significance lies in its trauma expertise. The team excels in complex wound healing, skin grafting, and reconstructive procedures. If you or a family member experiences severe injury while in China, you might notice the level of expertise here rivals specialized burn centers anywhere in the world.

Emergency & Specialty Services: Burns, Trauma, ICU—Ruijin Handles Critical Cases 24/7

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai is home to an early ICU system in China. Trauma, cardiac emergencies, burns, and acute poisoning all can be dealt with in their Emergency Department. There’s a helipad on the roof and you can reach their 24/7 emergency hotline at 021-64370045.

Several specialty departments merit attention for specific conditions. The Reproductive Medicine Center offers infertility treatment for couples facing conception challenges. Ophthalmology and ENT departments provide expert consultation for eye and ear-nose-throat issues. These specialty services demonstrate that Ruijin can handle virtually any medical situation you might encounter.

Navigate Ruijin Like a Pro: Complete Department Directory & Floor Guide

Full Hospital Layout

Full Hospital Layout: From Basement to 22nd Floor Department Map

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai's main building rises 22 floors with departments organized by specialty. The International Medical Department occupies Building 10's B1 level for outpatient care. Inpatient areas occupy Building 9 floors 11-12 and Building 10 floors 19-20. For your first visit, go directly to Building 10, B1 level. The comprehensive floor directory below serves as your navigation tool—save it to your phone.

Usage tips for easier navigation. The Chinese-English signs inside the main outpatient development building. Download official “Ruijin Hospital” app (includes English interface) for electronic map and directions. The first floor includes a Patient Service Center where staff can help guide you. Please note: any laboratory/blood draw center at Ruijin is located on 6F.

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai Complete Department Directory

International Medical Department Locations: Your Primary Access Points

The outpatient area occupies Building 10's B1 level, serving as the primary entry point. After entering through the main entrance, look for "International Medical Department" signage and take the elevator to B1. Outpatient hours run Monday through Friday 8:00-17:00, Saturday 8:00-12:00. Inpatient areas occupy Building 9 floors 11-12 and Building 10 floors 19-20, featuring single-patient rooms with 24-hour English-speaking nursing care.

For your first visit, the 1F Patient Service Center helps direct visitors to the International Medical Department location. If you've pre-booked specialist appointments, some experts conduct consultations on 13F or 14F—the department will inform you of the exact floor and room number in advance. First-time patients should always start at Building 10 B1 International Medical Department.

Meet the Experts: Recommended Doctors for International Patients at Ruijin

Hematology patients benefit from Academician Chen Saijuan's team, specializing in CAR-T therapy, leukemia, and lymphoma treatment. Endocrinology cases fall under Academician Ning Guang's leadership, bringing expertise in diabetes and thyroid disorders. Dr. Ye Tingjun in cardiology gained recognition for his fluent English and cardiovascular diagnostic skills. The gastroenterology team excels in digestive endoscopy techniques with extensive experience managing traveler complaints.

Booking these specialists requires advance work through the International Medical Department at 021-64678970 or [email protected]. Tell them your condition and the type of specialist you are looking for, and they will suggest whom you need. Best specialists should be booked 1-2 weeks ahead. General specialists you will get in a few days, normally 3-5 days. The International Medical Department always makes sure that the doctor in question speaks English at Ruijin Hospital Shanghai.

Step-by-Step Patient Journey: From Booking to Discharge at Ruijin

Patient Journey

Patient Journey Overview

Step 1: Pre-Visit Preparation - Documents & Contacts That Streamline Your Experience

Essential documents comprise your original passport plus visa, previous records (ideally in English) from other physicians, and recent lab work done within the previous six months. CT and MRI scans should be brought on a CD or DVD. You should include a list of medications you’re taking (with dosages), and if you’re using direct billing, bring your insurance card as well. Including names of those to be contacted in an emergency is also recommended.

Contact the International Medical Department through phone at 021-64678970 (Monday-Friday 8:00-17:00, Saturday 8:00-12:00). Email [email protected] for responses within 24 hours. You can also use WeChat by following "上海瑞金医院国际医疗部" official account. Schedule appointments 3-7 days in advance via phone or email, describing your condition and whether you'll use insurance direct billing.

Step 2: Arrival & Registration - Navigate from Airport to Consultation Room Efficiently

From Pudong Airport (50-60 minute drive) or Hongqiao Airport (30-40 minute drive), take a taxi or Didi. Simply say "Ruijin Hospital International Medical Department" in English. Metro option: take Line 9 to Dapuqiao Station, exit through Exit 3, then walk eight minutes. Hospital address: No. 197 Ruijin Road No. 2, Huangpu District, Shanghai.

Hospital interior navigation flows smoothly. Enter the main gate and find "International Medical Department" signs. Take the elevator to Building 10 B1. Present your passport at the reception desk where staff create your electronic medical record in five minutes. Multilingual service staff escort you to the consultation room. No need to navigate independently—the International Medical Department arranges staff accompaniment throughout your visit at Ruijin Hospital Shanghai.

Step 3: Your Medical Consultation Experience

Your allocated doctor will speak English, and will read through a brief history and nature of your concerns. They will take the briefest of medical histories, do any necessary physical examinations in private consultation rooms, etc. Honestly what surprised me is how much they pack into an hour vs rushed appointments in other clinics.

If tests are needed, your doctor will write orders immediately. You can complete blood tests, imaging, and other diagnostics on the same floor. Results are typically available within hours, not days. Your doctor will explain findings and recommend treatment options in clear language that respects your understanding.

Step 4: Diagnostic Tests and Procedures

The International Medical Department consolidates common tests in one location. Blood draws, ECG, and basic imaging happen on the same floor as consultations. For advanced imaging like MRI or CT, staff will escort you to the appropriate department. You know, it's almost like they've thought through every step to minimize your walking and waiting.

Test results integrate directly into your electronic medical record. Your doctor accesses results in real-time during your visit. For complex cases requiring multiple specialists, internal referrals happen seamlessly. You won't need to re-register or repeat your medical history.

Step 5: Treatment Options and Hospitalization at Ruijin

After your doctor has reviewed the results of all your tests, he will discuss your options for treatment. If the treatment is outpatient, you will get your prescriptions filled at the International Medical Department pharmacy staffed by English-speaking pharmacists. Instructions on the medications, plus dosage, are given in English and the sound of the pharmacists checking dosages in both languages is also assuring.

If hospitalization is needed, the admissions team arranges everything immediately. Single rooms cost approximately ¥5,000 per day ($700 USD). VIP suites with family accommodations are available at higher rates. Your insurance direct billing continues during hospitalization if pre-approved.

Step 6: Payment Solutions - Insurance Direct Billing vs Self-Pay Options Explained

The recommended payment method uses commercial insurance direct billing. Ruijin Hospital Shanghai partners with 20+ international insurers including Bupa, Allianz, AXA, and Cigna. Call the International Medical Department before your visit to confirm your insurer appears on their partnership list. Provide your insurance card and policy number. The hospital bills your insurance company directly.

Self-pay options include international credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express), Alipay or WeChat Pay (requires linked card), Chinese yuan cash, or domestic Chinese bank cards. Cost reference for 2026: specialist consultations ¥600-1,200, single-room hospitalization approximately ¥5,000 per day. All charges include official invoices with English itemized statements available upon request.

Step 7: During Your Stay - Language Support, VIP Services & Follow-Up Care

Hospitalization in Ruijin Hospital Shanghai, private rooms with attached baths, television, refrigerator and WiFi. Twenty-four hour English-speaking nursing. The smell of the food carts offering both Chinese and Western styles waft down the corridors every few hours. One family member at bedside may stay with the patient overnight.

Multidisciplinary expert consultations can be arranged when complex cases require input from multiple specialties. The hospital cafeteria offers varied meal options, with food delivery services also available from surrounding restaurants. To be honest, the attention to comfort details makes a real difference when you're dealing with health concerns.

Step 8: Post-Discharge Follow-Up Care and Ongoing Support

Before discharge, you'll receive a comprehensive summary in English. This includes diagnosis, treatment provided, medications prescribed, and follow-up recommendations. Request additional copies for your records and home country doctor. Actually, many patients find these detailed English reports invaluable when coordinating ongoing care back home.

Your treating physician remains available for follow-up questions via WeChat or email. Many international patients schedule video consultations for medication adjustments or test result reviews. The International Medical Department contacts you at 1 week, 1 month, and 3 months post-discharge. This continuity of care ensures your treatment success even after returning home from Shanghai.

Emergency Access & 24/7 Support: When You Need Urgent Care at Ruijin

Call the emergency hotline (021-64370045; 24 hours) to describe the nature of your emergency. Enter through the main gate start a brief run of waves of signage labelled ‘Emergency’. Registration can be via international credit cards. You will need to be prepared for emergency physicians to do fast triage work, with life-saving treatments following fast, once language problems are sorted where possible. A final note: staff will mainly only speak Chinese at the emergency section, but the hospital is quick to mobilize hard work on your behalf in cases needed.

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai's emergency department excels in trauma care including fractures and traffic accident injuries. They handle cardiac emergencies like heart attacks and arrhythmias. Severe burns leverage Ruijin's pioneering burn treatment heritage. The rooftop helipad enables rapid transfer of critical patients. For non-life-threatening situations, contact the International Medical Department first at 021-64678970 to arrange specialist consultations.

Ruijin Hospital's 119-Year Legacy: From French Mission to Medical Powerhouse

High-end Medical Equipment at Ruijin Hospital, Shanghai

French Concession Roots Shape Today's International Patient Experience

Originally founded in 1907 by French Catholic missionaries as Sainte-Marie Hospital, Ruijin Hospital Shanghai is still located in the historic French Concession. The hospital’s French-style surroundings create a soothing combination of colonial elegance and pure medical energy. This international heritage enabled the establishment of foreign patient services in 1992, well before this need was realized by most Chinese hospitals. Ruijin Hospital’s medical breakthroughs mark the bounds of modernity in China, from pioneering work on burns in 1958 through the breakthrough leukemia therapy of the 1980s.

National Rankings Prove Ruijin Delivers Results International Patients Can Trust

The 2023 National Tertiary Public Hospital Performance Assessment awarded Ruijin Hospital Shanghai top-tier A++ status for the fifth consecutive year. This government evaluation measured medical quality, operational efficiency, and patient satisfaction across all major hospitals. The hospital employs 6,513 healthcare professionals including 1,728 physicians across 2,742 beds. Five Chinese Academy of Sciences and Engineering academicians lead research here. Since 1998, Ruijin has served over 80,000 international patients, and in 2024, Shanghai designated it among the city's first “International Medical Tourism Pilot Hospitals.”

International Medical Department: Designed Specifically for Patients Like You

The International Medical Department offers something you won't find in general clinics—fluent English and French-speaking doctors in private consultation rooms. You'll access direct billing with 20+ international insurance providers including Bupa, Allianz, and Cigna. Specialist consultations range ¥600-1,200 ($85-170) versus ¥50-100 in general clinics. What really makes the difference is zero waiting time and one-stop service where you complete consultations, tests, and prescriptions in the same area. In 2025, a British YouTuber brought his stepfather here after three months of unsuccessful diagnosis in the UK—Dr. Ye Tingjun provided a clear diagnosis within hours, earning praise that garnered 500,000 views online.

Location Advantage: Medical Care Meets Shanghai's Most Charming Neighborhood

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai

French Concession Heritage: Transform Medical Visit into Cultural Experience

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai is right in the center of the French Concession and one of the main reasons I chose it is that within the complex is a hospital but also historical landmarks. The old buildings are literal monuments, the red bricks and arched tops are decorated with 1907. Also within 15 minutes’ walk are Xintiandi for dining and shopping, Tianzifang with its creative markets, and Fuxing Park refreshment greenery. What I love is how more of the European ambience of the neighbourhood gives a “healing” quality to getting your medical treatments—it almost feels like you are getting world-class healthcare in a peaceful corner of Paris.

3-Day Medical Tourism Itinerary: Combine Treatment with Shanghai Exploration

Day 1 begins with arrival and checking into hotels near Xintiandi, offering 15-minute walks to Ruijin Hospital Shanghai. Schedule afternoon initial consultation at the International Medical Department (allocate 2-3 hours). Evening brings Xintiandi dining and Sinan Road nighttime strolls. Day 2 starts with morning follow-up examinations (allocate 1-2 hours), followed by Tianzifang art district exploration and Huaihai Road shopping. Evening offers Bund sightseeing via Metro Line 9. Day 3 involves final morning consultations to receive treatment plans (allocate 1-2 hours), hotel checkout, then Yuyuan Garden visits or direct airport departure. Accommodation recommendations span luxury options like Capella Shanghai (10-minute walk) to budget-friendly selections like Ibis Xujiahui (15-minute drive).

Practical Travel Tips: Transportation, Food & Accommodation Near Ruijin

Transportation convenience includes Metro Line 9 Dapuqiao Station, Exit 3 (8 minute walk). 36, 786 and 869 on the bus, direct taxi or Didi. Location is 30-40 minutes from Hongqiao Airport and 50-60 minutes from Pudong Airport. Restaurant suggestions include Western restaurants at Ferguson Lane and traditional Shanghainese on Fuxing Road. There is a cafeteria within the hospital offering Chinese and Western food.

Special dietary options including vegetarian and halal restaurants are available through International Medical Department consultation. Accommodation value analysis reveals options from Capella Shanghai (French villa conversion, ¥5,000+ per night) to Ibis Xujiahui (budget chain, ¥400-600 per night). Medical tourism benefits from selecting walking-distance hotels in the Xintiandi or Sinan Road areas at Ruijin Hospital Shanghai.

Quick Reference Guide: Essential Tips for Smooth Medical Visit

Optimal Timing for Your Visit

Best treatment seasons include spring (March-May) and autumn (September-November). Pleasant weather supports post-surgical recovery during these months. Avoid Chinese National Day Golden Week (October 1-7) and Spring Festival (late January through early February). Hospitals experience high patient volumes and some specialists take vacation during these periods. Appointment advance notice: general specialists need 3-5 days, top-tier experts require 1-2 weeks.

Cultural & Communication Essentials

Download tools to help you navigate the language barrier: Pleco Chinese-English dictionary app and Google Translate language offline packs. Set up Alipay or WeChat Pay while in advance by linking your foreign credit cards. Purchase Chinese SIM cards from China Mobile or China Unicom at the airport as well. And remember to adhere to rules of Chinese courtesy: No tips for doctors honestly they won’t expect a single dime, so say thank you through official hospital channels instead.

Medical Details That Matter

Bring both generic names and brand names of regular medications. Chinese markets may use different commercial names for identical drugs. Consider visa extension possibilities for medical tourism. Request English versions of all examination reports at Ruijin Hospital Shanghai. Arrange remote follow-up methods (WeChat, email, or video) before leaving. Save physician contact information for post-discharge questions.

Emergency Preparedness

Save your crucial phone numbers—International Medical Department 021-64678970, Emergency Department 021-64370045. If you have commercial insurance save the 24-hour China service hotline of your insurance company. And don’t forget to have your country’s Shanghai consulate’s contact numbers available. With all of this in order you will never be far from help.

FAQs: Real Answers to Questions International Patients Actually Ask

Q: Is Ruijin Hospital affiliated with Shanghai Jiao Tong University?

Yes, Ruijin Hospital's full official name is "Ruijin Hospital Affiliated to Shanghai Jiao Tong University School of Medicine." This partnership ensures the hospital maintains the highest academic standards, with direct access to cutting-edge research and China's top medical talent. The university affiliation means you're treated by doctors who teach at one of Asia's premier medical schools, combining clinical excellence with educational leadership.

Q: Can foreigners access public hospitals in China, or must I use private clinics?

Foreigners absolutely can use China's public hospitals like Ruijin Hospital Shanghai—in fact, top public hospitals far exceed private clinics in medical expertise. Ruijin's International Medical Department was specifically designed for foreign patients, offering English-speaking doctors, insurance direct billing, and streamlined processes. While private clinics may feel more familiar, you'd miss world-class specialists available only at leading public institutions.

Q: How does Ruijin rank among China's best hospitals?

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai ranks second nationally among comprehensive hospitals in the 2020 National Tertiary Public Hospital Performance Assessment, earning the highest A++ rating for three consecutive years. This government evaluation measures medical quality, operational efficiency, continuous development, and patient satisfaction. Only Beijing's Peking Union Medical College Hospital ranks higher, meaning Ruijin delivers treatment quality comparable to the best Western hospitals at significantly lower costs.

Q: Do doctors speak English at Ruijin Hospital's International Medical Department?

Yes, the International Medical Department specifically staffs doctors and nurses with fluent English capabilities. Many physicians also speak French or Japanese. All signage is bilingual Chinese-English, and medical reports can be translated into English. If you're concerned about language barriers, mention this when booking—the department will confirm your doctor's language abilities and arrange professional medical interpreters for complex cases.

Q: What are the consultation fees at Ruijin's International Medical Department?

Specialist consultation fees range from ¥600-1,200 ($85-170 USD). Hospitalization in single rooms costs approximately ¥5,000 per day ($700 USD). While higher than China's public outpatient fees (¥50-100), you're paying for zero wait times, English-speaking care, and personalized service. International insurance with direct billing partnerships can cover these costs—check if your insurer is among their 20+ partners.

Q: How far in advance should I book an appointment at Ruijin Hospital?

For non-emergency cases, book 3-7 days ahead for general specialists, 1-2 weeks for renowned experts like academicians. However, the International Medical Department often accommodates same-day or next-day appointments for urgent matters. Emergency cases receive 24/7 treatment without appointment. Pro tip: book earlier during Chinese holidays when specialist availability is reduced at Ruijin Hospital Shanghai.

Q: Does Ruijin Hospital accept international health insurance?

Yes, Ruijin Hospital Shanghai has direct billing partnerships with 20+ international insurers including Bupa, Allianz, AXA, and Cigna. This means if your policy is on their list, the hospital bills your insurer directly—you don't pay upfront then wait for reimbursement. Contact the International Medical Department before your visit to confirm coverage and handle all paperwork seamlessly.

Q: What happens if I need emergency care after business hours?

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai's Emergency Department operates 24/7 with specialization in trauma, cardiac emergencies, burns, and acute poisoning. Call 021-64370045 for emergencies. While emergency staff primarily speak Chinese, life-threatening cases receive immediate treatment with language issues resolved afterward through interpreters. Once stabilized, you can transfer to the International Medical Department for continued English-language care.

Q: Can I get English medical reports to share with my home country doctor?

Absolutely—request English translations when registering at the International Medical Department. All test results, imaging reports, and discharge summaries can be provided in English for a small translation fee (typically ¥100-300 or $15-45). This is essential for continuity of care when returning home. Ruijin's reports use international medical terminology, making them easily understood by overseas physicians.

Q: Is Ruijin Hospital the oldest in Shanghai?

Ruijin Hospital Shanghai, founded in 1907, ranks among Shanghai's oldest Western-style hospitals but not the oldest overall—Renji Hospital (1844) holds that distinction. However, Ruijin's significance lies in its French Catholic mission roots and evolution into one of modern China's most prestigious medical centers. The hospital bridges Shanghai's colonial past and global present, with 117 years of continuous medical excellence.