Complete, recent medical records are the foundation of any treatment plan abroad. A Chinese hospital needs them to decide whether it can help, what it would recommend and roughly what it would cost. You do not need everything to start a review, but the more complete the file, the faster and more accurate the answer.
The core documents
- A recent summary or referral letter from the treating doctor, describing the diagnosis and treatment so far
- Discharge summaries from previous hospital stays
- Pathology and biopsy reports, including any molecular or genetic test results
- Imaging reports for CT, MRI, PET or ultrasound
- Recent blood tests and other lab results
- Current medications, doses and allergies
- A list of previous treatments with dates (surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, other therapies)
Imaging: send the files, not just the report
Specialists usually want to see the images themselves. Ask your imaging center for the original files in DICOM format, often provided on a disc, USB drive or via a download link. Screenshots and phone photos of a screen are rarely enough for a surgical or radiotherapy plan.
Pathology slides and blocks
For cancer cases, the hospital may want to review the original pathology. Ask your pathology lab how slides or tissue blocks can be released, and do not send originals by post without guidance. The hospital will tell you whether a review is needed.
Translation
Records in any language can be used. Key documents are translated for the reviewing specialists, and summaries can be translated back for you and your home doctor. Keep the originals; translations are working copies.
Organizing the file
- Put documents in date order, newest first.
- Name digital files clearly, for example "2026-08-14 CT chest report".
- Write a one-page timeline of the illness and treatments.
- Note your questions for the specialists.
Carrying records when you travel
Bring paper copies and digital copies of everything, including imaging discs, in your hand luggage. Carry enough medication for the whole trip plus extra days, in original packaging with a prescription or doctor's letter. Keep your home doctor's contact details handy for follow-up.
You can start with what you have. Request a free case review and we will tell you which reports are missing. Read how to get medical treatment in China as a foreigner for the full journey.
