Specialist waits
In much of Canada, the wait from a family doctor’s referral to treatment by a specialist can run to many months. At large Chinese hospitals, specialist appointments are often available within days.
Medical care in China from Canada
Long waits for specialists, scans and some treatments lead many Canadians to look abroad. Sino Health Link is an Alberta-based business that helps Canadians reach specialist care in China, with a team on the ground and fees paid to a Canadian business.
Why Canadians contact us
Scans and tests
MRI, CT, heart tests and endoscopy can usually be done within days, with reports translated into English for your doctor at home. See Health screening.
Treatments not offered in Canada
Some therapies, such as carbon-ion radiotherapy and certain cell therapies, are available or approved in China but not in Canada. See Treatments.
Self-pay procedures
For procedures you would pay for privately, Chinese hospital prices are often lower. We get written estimates so you can compare. See Surgery & procedures.
Getting there
Direct flights connect Vancouver and Toronto with major Chinese cities. Canadian citizens can currently enter China without a visa for short stays, and longer treatment can be covered by a visa extension supported by a hospital letter. Rules change, so see our Visas page for the current position.
Before you go: provincial coverage and insurance
Provincial health plans rarely pay for planned treatment abroad, and most require approval in advance for any out-of-country coverage. Travel insurance usually excludes planned treatment. Check with your province and insurer before you travel. We provide itemized receipts and translated reports for any claim.
Your doctor at home stays involved
We encourage you to involve your family doctor or specialist from the start. Reports are translated into English, and when you return we hand over to your doctor at home.
A Canadian business you can check: Sino Health Link is based in Airdrie, Alberta. Our fees are paid to our Canadian business under an Alberta contract, and hospital bills are paid directly to the hospital against an official invoice.
Sino Health Link is an independent coordination service, not a hospital. We do not diagnose, prescribe or treat. Licensed doctors make all medical recommendations and decisions with you.