4.4 Payment Methods & Cost Management

Navigating the Financial Logistics of Care

Understanding China's payment ecosystem is critical. Unlike Western systems where insurance is primary, China operates on a "pay-as-you-go" (门诊) and "deposit-upfront" (住院) model. For international patients, this means managing large cash flows, understanding digital payment dominance, and preparing for significant upfront deposits. This chapter details the payment channels, cost structures, and strategies to manage your financial risk.

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