The first pilot phase
In March 2026, Guangdong announced its first 25 international medical-service pilot hospitals. The initial pilot period covers 2026–2027 and includes an exit mechanism and dynamic optimisation of the list.
Who international medical services are intended for
Public policy information describes international medical services as services provided under internationally recognised technical, process, management and payment approaches for self-paying people or holders of international commercial insurance, including residents of Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, foreign nationals and overseas Chinese.
Six priority tasks
- Develop international medical-service demonstration areas
- Build standardised international management systems
- Innovate cross-border healthcare payment models
- Support appropriate clinical application of advanced medical technologies
- Explore internet-enabled cross-border clinical services
- Strengthen international medical-service operations and management
Protecting basic medical resources
The pilot requires international and basic medical resources to be managed separately, using additional beds, dedicated areas and specialist service teams. International clinics must operate without reducing ordinary outpatient access.
National medical-centre development in the Greater Bay Area
Public information from the National Health Commission identifies the National Center for Respiratory Medicine at the First Affiliated Hospital of Guangzhou Medical University and a National Regional Medical Center for Children at Guangzhou Women and Children's Medical Center.