Kids' Health in China: Vaccinations & Medical Care for Expat Families

Moving to China with children requires careful planning, especially regarding pediatric healthcare. How does the medical system work? Which vaccines are mandatory and recommended? What are the costs of consultations and medical care? Most importantly, how can you ensure high-quality healthcare for your child without excessive costs?

As trusted experts in expat health insurance in Asia and official CFE representative in China and Hong Kong, Alea provides all the essential information you need.

1. How Does the Healthcare System for Children Work in China?

China’s healthcare system is dual-tiered, with significant differences between public hospitals and private clinics:

• Public hospitals – Affordable but often overcrowded, with limited English-speaking staff.
• Private hospitals & international clinics – More expensive but provide better care, with English-speaking doctors and services tailored to expats.

Where Can You See a Pediatrician in China?

• Public hospitals, like Xiehe Hospital (Beijing) or Fudan Children's Hospital (Shanghai): Low cost but long wait times and language barriers
• Private Chinese hospitals, like Jiahui Health or Parkway Health: Good balance of cost and quality but more expensive than public hospitals
• International clinics, like United Family Healthcare or Raffles Medical: Offers English/French-speaking staff and high-quality care

Estimated Medical Costs for Children in China

• Pediatric consultation: 200 – 1,500 RMB (≈ 26 – 190 Euros)
• Vaccination per dose: 300 – 2,500 RMB (≈ 38 – 319 Euros)
• Emergency & hospitalization (per day): 5,000 – 30,000 RMB (≈ 638 – 3,828 Euros)

💡 Important: Public hospitals often require advance booking (days or even weeks ahead).

2. Vaccinations for Children in China: What’s Recommended?

Vaccination is a major concern for expat families. Some vaccines are mandatory in China, while others are recommended by international health authorities.

Mandatory Vaccines in China (Local Schedule)

• BCG (Tuberculosis)
• Hepatitis B
• Polio
• Diphtheria, Tetanus, Pertussis (DTP)
• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)

Recommended Vaccines for Expat Children

• Meningococcal – Recommended for children in group settings.
• Japanese Encephalitis – Essential for those in rural/humid areas.
• Hepatitis A – Protects against foodborne infections.
• Seasonal Flu – Strongly advised, especially in winter.
• Typhoid – Important for traveling within China.

💡 Tip: Vaccines in China may differ from European versions. Always check the brand and source before administering. Many expats prefer international clinics for better vaccine traceability.

Estimated Vaccination Costs in China

• Public hospitals: 300 – 800 RMB per dose (≈ 38 – 102 Euros)
• International clinics: 1,500 – 2,500 RMB per dose (≈ 190 – 319 Euros)

3. Ensuring Optimal Medical Care for Your Child in China

To maintain your child’s health in China, follow these essential steps:

• Choose a primary doctor – Opt for an international clinic or private hospital.
• Keep a medical record – Track vaccines and treatments for seamless care.
• Get the right health insurance – Cover the high costs of pediatric care in China.

When Should Your Child See a Pediatrician?

• Regular check-ups: Every 3 to 6 months (up to age 2), then annually.
• Persistent fever or viral infections – Common among children in China.
• Respiratory issues from pollution – Asthma and allergies are common concerns.

💡 Tip: Air pollution in China can impact children’s health. Using an air purifier at home and limiting outdoor activities during pollution spikes can help.

4. Why Get Health Insurance for Your Children in China?

Pediatric care—especially in international clinics—can be extremely expensive. A comprehensive health insurance plan ensures access to the best medical care without financial strain.

Key Benefits of Expat Health Insurance for Children

• Covers pediatric consultations and vaccinations
• Access to top international hospitals & clinics
• Emergency care & hospitalization coverage
• Protection against pollution-related illnesses & local diseases

As a leading insurance broker for expats and official CFE partner in China, Alea assists the French and expat community in finding the best health insurance solutions.

With China's complex healthcare system and the high cost of private care, we compare top-tier health insurers—including APRIL, Henner, and MSH—to secure the best coverage at the best price for you and your family!