Need to see a doctor while traveling, but don’t know where to find one in Hong Kong? Here’s our guide to healthcare for travelers in Hong Kong.
We’ve included information on public vs. private, insurance options, and multilingual support, as well as FAQs from travelers.
Pro tip: For all your travel insurance needs we recommend SafetyWing or Travelex.
Hong Kong’s healthcare system
The bad news: You’re in need of medical care while traveling. The good news: Hong Kong’s healthcare system has got you covered.
Whether you’re a Hong Kong citizen or a visitor on a tourist visa, everyone has access to public healthcare services in Hong Kong.
However, if you have a Hong Kong ID (HKID), you are eligible for the territory’s subsidised healthcare. On the other hand, tourists, including residents of Mainland China, are regarded as “non-eligible persons”. This means you’ll pay a lot more at public hospitals and clinics — sometimes comparable to visiting a private clinic or hospital. For example, a HKID holder can expect to pay HK$50.00 for a visit to the general outpatient clinic. However, visitors will need to pay upwards of HK$445.00.
When visiting a clinic or hospital, it’s important to wear a mask if you can. You should also take photo ID, plus any medical documents you may have. If you have a valid Hong Kong Identification Card (HKID), be sure to carry that with you.
Pro tip: Read our complete guide to Hong Kong healthcare for more information.
Is it better for tourists to go public or private clinics in Hong Kong?
There are several factors to consider when choosing beween public and private. For example cost, waiting time, quality of service, and location, to name a few.
Here’s a quick comparison to help you make a decision.
| Clinic | Costs | Waiting time | Quality of care | Language support |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Public clinics and hospitals | Generally more affordable. See the complete list of fees and charges here. | Waiting time is usually longer. May not be ideal in an emergency situation. | You can expect a high quality of service. However, keep in mind that public hospitals and clinics are usually busy, so you may not get to speak with the doctor at length. | Can generally handle English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. For other languages, interpretation services can be arranged. Additionally, standard response cue cards, disease information sheets and consent forms are available in multiple languages. See complete information here. |
| Private clinics and hospitals | Expensive | You can expect to get in quickly. | The quality of care is very high, with many hospitals regarded as the best in the region and even the world. | Can generally handle English, Cantonese, and Mandarin. It may be possible to arrange interpretation services. There may also be multilingual staff present. |
Public hospitals in Hong Kong
As we mentioned, sometimes a public clinic or hospital will do the trick — especially if you have a mild condition and don’t mind waiting a bit.
All public institutions follow the pricing scheme set by the Hospital Authority. Payment methods include cash, Octopus, Apple Pay, Google Pay, FPS, and more.
Note: This is a non-exhaustive list of public hospitals in Hong Kong. For the complete list, see this page by the Hospital Authority.
Hong Kong Island
1. Queen Mary Hospital
Queen Mary Hospital is renowned for its cutting-edge medical technology and comprehensive range of specialized services. It offers top-tier patient care across various disciplines. Affiliated with the University of Hong Kong, the hospital is a hub for medical research and education, fostering advancements in medical science and training future healthcare professionals.
Address: 102 Pok Fu Lam Road, Hong Kong
Opening hours: Offers 24 hour accident and emergency service. Open Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays.
Contact number: 2255 3838
Email: qmh_enquiry@ha.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
2. Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital
Pamela Youde Nethersole Eastern Hospital, located in Chai Wan, is a leading public hospital known for its state-of-the-art facilities and patient-centered care. As part of the Hong Kong East Cluster under the Hospital Authority, it provides a wide spectrum of medical services. These include acute and emergency care, specialized treatments, and advanced surgical procedures. Named in honor of the late Governor Sir Edward Youde’s wife, the hospital is also affiliated with the Alice Ho Miu Ling Nethersole Charity Foundation.
Address: 3 Lok Man Road, Chai Wan, Hong Kong
Opening hours: Hours vary. See complete information here.
Contact number: 2698 6111
Email: pyneh_enquiry@ha.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
3. Ruttonjee Hospital
Wan Chai‘s Ruttonjee Hospital is a prominent public hospital with a strong focus on respiratory medicine and thoracic surgery. It was originally established by the Indian merchant Jehangir Ruttonjee and his family. Now, it’s modern healthcare facility with a comprehensive range of services, including acute medical care, specialist outpatient clinics, and advanced diagnostic procedures.
Address: 266 Queen’s Road East, Wan Chai, HK
Opening hours: Offers 24 hour accident and emergency services. Open Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays.
Contact number: 2291 2000
Email: rtskh_enquiry@ha.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
4. Tung Wah Eastern Hospital
Tung Wah Eastern Hospital, located in Causeway Bay, is a respected institution within the Tung Wah Group of Hospitals network. It provides a broad array of medical treatments, including geriatrics, rehabilitation, and palliative care. The hospital integrates traditional Chinese medicine with modern medical practices.
Address: 19 Eastern Hospital Road, Causeway Bay, HK
Opening hours: Open Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays.
Contact number: 2162 6888
Email: tweh_enquiry@ha.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Kowloon
5. Queen Elizabeth Hospital
Queen Elizabeth Hospital is one of the region’s largest and most renowned public hospitals. As a flagship institution within the Hospital Authority’s Kowloon Central Cluster, it offers an extensive range of specialized medical services. These include cardiology, oncology, neurosurgery, and advanced diagnostic imaging. Queen Elizabeth Hospital is also a major teaching hospital that fosters medical research and education.
Address: 30 Gascoigne Rd, Yau Ma Tei, Hong Kong
Opening hours: Offers 24 hour accident and emergency services. Open Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays.
Contact number: 3506 8888
Email: qeh_webmaster@ha.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
6. Princess Margaret
Princess Margaret Hospital, situated in Kwai Chung, is renowned for its comprehensive range of medical services and dedication to patient care. As a key facility within the Kowloon West Cluster of the Hospital Authority, it offers specialized treatments in areas such as cardiology, nephrology, oncology, and infectious diseases. The hospital is also a leader in public health and epidemiology, and plays a vital role in managing and preventing outbreaks. There are over 1,700 beds and 5,000 staff.
Address: 2-10 Princess Margaret Hospital Road, Lai Chi Kok, Kowloon
Opening hours: Offers 24 hour accident and emergency services. Open Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays.
Contact number: 2990 1111
Email: pmh.enquiry@ha.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
7. Tsueng Kwan O Hospital
With a capacity of approximately 633 beds, this hospital provides a wide range of medical services, including general surgery, orthopedics, obstetrics, pediatrics, and emergency care. It is equipped with specialized units such as the Intensive Care Unit (ICU) and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) to handle critical medical needs.
Address: No. 2 Po Ning Lane, Hang Hau, Tseung Kwan O, Kowloon
Opening hours: Offers 24 hour accident and emergency services. Open Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays.
Contact number: 2208 0111
Email: tkoh.enquiry@ha.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
New Territories
8. Prince of Wales Hospital
Prince of Wales Hospital (PWH) is a prominent medical institution located in Sha Tin, New Territories, Hong Kong. Established in 1984, PWH is managed by the Hospital Authority and serves as a key hospital within the New Territories East Cluster. It has a bed capacity exceeding 1,400 and offers comprehensive medical services across various specialties. These include internal medicine, surgery, orthopedics, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, and more.
Address: 30-32 Ngan Shing Street, Shatin, New Territories
Opening hours: Offers 24 hour accident and emergency services. Open Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays.
Contact number: 3505 2415
Email: pwh_enquiry@ha.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
9. Tuen Mun Hospital
Tuen Mun Hospital boasts a substantial capacity of approximately 2,000 beds, with over 7,000 staff members on call. The hospital complex features several distinct blocks, including a ten-storey Main Block, a thirteen-storey Rehabilitation Block, a four-storey Special Block, an one-storey Radiotherapy Block, a two-storey Pathology Block, a sixteen-storey staff quarters, and a ten-storey Ambulatory Care Centre. This comprehensive infrastructure supports the hospital in delivering a wide range of medical services and specialized care to meet the healthcare needs of the community.
Address: 23 Tsing Chung Koon Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories
Opening hours: Offers 24 hour accident and emergency services. Open Monday to Friday: 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays.
Contact number: 2468 5111
Email: ntwcpa@ha.org hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
10. Castle Peak Hospital
Castle Peak Hospital (CPH) is a psychiatric hospital located in Tuen Mun, New Territories, Hong Kong. Established in 1961, CPH is managed by the Hospital Authority and is dedicated to providing mental health services to the community.
Address: 15 Tsing Chung Koon Road, Tuen Mun, New Territories
Opening hours: Service hours vary. See complete information here.
Contact number: 2456 7111
Email: cph_enquiry@ha.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Private hospitals in Hong Kong
So you’ve decided to go the private route — great! Below, we have a handful of private hospitals in Hong Kong for you to choose from.
Note: This is a non-exhaustive list of private institutions.
Hong Kong Island
1. Gleneagles Hong Kong Hospital
With 24-hour outpatient clinics, emergency room services, and wards that take in a maximum of two patients, Gleneagles is a highly-rated private hospital. There is a free shuttle from Wong Chuk Hang MTR Station that runs approximately every 10 minutes. You can also expect to find cafés, convenience stores, restaurants, and more in the vicinity.
Gleneagles is a teaching hospital partnered with the Li Ka Shing School of Medicine at the University of Hong Kong.
Address: 1 Nam Fung Path, Wong Chuk Hang, Hong Kong
Opening hours: Monday to Friday: 9 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.; 2:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.; Saturday: 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.. Closed on Sunday & public holidays.
Contact number: 3153 9000
Email: enquiry@gleneagles.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: Offers direct billing. Accepts the majority of local insurers and various leading international insurance plans. See complete information here.
2. Hong Kong Adventist Hospital in The Peak
Hong Kong Adventist Hospital offers a broad spectrum of medical specialties including internal medicine, surgery, orthopedics, obstetrics, and pediatrics. It is also recognized for its specialized health assessment programs tailored for corporate clients seeking to enhance the well-being of their employees.
Accredited by both the Australian Council on Healthcare Standards (ACHS) and the Joint Commission International (JCI), HKAH adheres to rigorous international healthcare standards, ensuring top-notch care for its patients. Furthermore, HKAH holds distinctions as the first hospital in Hong Kong certified by the International Network of Health Promoting Hospitals (HPH), demonstrating its proactive role in promoting community health. Its private hospital laboratory is also accredited under the Hong Kong Laboratory Accreditation Scheme (HOKLAS), guaranteeing the accuracy and reliability of its diagnostic services.
Address: 40 Stubbs Rd, Happy Valley, Hong Kong
Opening hours: Varies by clinic. See the schedule and holidays here.
Contact number: 3651 8888
Email: enquiry@canossahospital.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: Offers direct billing. Accepts the majority of local insurers and various leading international insurance plans. See complete information here.
3. Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital in Happy Valley
Established in 1922, Hong Kong Sanatorium and Hospital has grown into one of Hong Kong’s premier private hospitals renowned for its exceptional patient care. Originally known as The Yeung Wo Nursing Home with just 28 beds, the hospital now boasts approximately 500 beds and over 30 specialty centers. It provides comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic services in a modern, comfortable setting.
Address: 2 Village Rd, Happy Valley, Hong Kong
Opening hours: Service hours vary. See complete information here.
Contact number: 2572 0211
Email: hospital@hksh-hospital.com
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: See pricing information here. Consult the Patient Handbook for more specific information.
4. Matilda International Hospital
Matilda International Hospital is a leading private hospital in Hong Kong. It is recognized for its specialization in obstetrics, providing a full spectrum of maternity services such as antenatal care, educational classes, hospital delivery, postnatal support, and home care for newborns.
Address: 41 Mount Kellett Rd, The Peak, Hong Kong
Opening hours: Service hours vary. See complete information here.
Contact number: 2849 0111
Email: info@matilda.org
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: Has agreements with most insurance companies in Hong Kong and many international insurers. See further insurance information here. Price chart provided here.
5. St Paul’s Hospital
St. Paul’s Hospital, situated in the Causeway Bay area of Hong Kong Island, is a contemporary and longstanding healthcare facility with over 400 beds, providing an extensive array of specialized services.
St. Paul’s Hospital undergoes bi-annual surveys and accreditation by the QHA Trent Accreditation Scheme from the United Kingdom, a leading international healthcare accreditation organization.
Address: 2 Eastern Hospital Rd, Causeway Bay, Hong Kong
Opening hours: 24-hour outpatient services are provided. Walkins accepted.
Contact number: 2890 6008
Email: enquiry@stpaul.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: Offers direct billing. See further information here. Price chart provided here.
6. Canossa Hospital (Caritas)
Canossa is surveyed and accredited bi-annually by QHA Trent Accreditation of the United Kingdom, a major international healthcare accreditation group. With more than 100 beds, Canossa Hospital provides obstetrics and other in-patient services. It also has a Specialist Clinic, 24-hour Out Patient Services, Brain Centre, and more. Other services include physiotherapy, endoscopy, and health check programs.
Address: 1號 Old Peak Rd, Mid-Levels, Hong Kong
Opening hours: 24-hour outpatient services are provided. Walk-ins accepted.
Contact number: 2522 2181
Email: enquiry@canossahospital.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: See price list and accomodation charges.
Kowloon
7. Baptist Hospital
Baptist Hospital Hong Kong, officially known as Hong Kong Baptist Hospital (HKBH), is a leading private hospital located in Kowloon Tong. It offers more than 30 medical centers and paramedical services, a 24-hour Out-patient Clinic, Orthopedic Out Patient Specialist Clinic, and other specialist clinics. There are more than 2,200 staff and 860 beds available here.
Address: 222 Waterloo Rd, Kowloon Tong, Hong Kong
Opening hours: 24-hour outpatient services are provided. Walk-ins accepted.
Contact number: 2339 8888
Email: info@hkbh.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: See complete price information here.
8. St. Teresa’s Hospital
St. Teresa’s is the largest nonprofit Roman Catholic hospital in the area. Founded by the Pauline Sisters in 1940, the hospital was established to provide healthcare closer to the residents of Kowloon, complementing the services of St. Paul’s Hospital on Hong Kong Island. Often referred to locally as the “French Hospital” or “Kowloon French Hospital,” it was strategically situated near the former Ma Tau Wai village, after which the surrounding area is named. With 1,050 beds and a wide range of medical specialties, St. Teresa’s Hospital is a member of the Hong Kong Private Hospitals Association and undergoes bi-annual accreditation by QHA Trent Accreditation from the United Kingdom.
Address: 327 Prince Edward Rd W, Mong Kok, Hong Kong
Opening hours: 24-hour outpatient services are provided. Walk-ins accepted. Service hours vary by doctor. See the schedules here.
Contact number: 2200 3434
Email: sth@sth.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: See information here. Price chart provided here.
New Territories
9. Union Hospital in Tai Wai
Union Hospital offers a comprehensive range of specialized medical services. These include reproductive health, breast care, cardiology, neurosurgery, obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, oncology, mental health, internal medicine, ophthalmology, and dental care. Notably, it stands out as the sole private hospital in collaboration with Gleneagles Hong Kong Hospital to provide Emergency and Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) services in Hong Kong.
Embracing a transparent approach to healthcare costs, Union Hospital implements a flat-rate policy for services, encompassing operations and maternity care. This initiative ensures patients benefit from clear, predictable pricing that covers all treatments.
Address: 18 Fu Kin St, Tai Wai, Hong Kong
Opening hours: 24-hour emergency medicine consultation services and specialist outpatient services. Charges for emergency medicine centre vary according to different service hours.
Contact number: 2608 3388
Email: union@union.org
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: See room rates here. See admission information here. See specialty service charges here.
10. Tsuen Wan Adventist Hospital
Tsuen Wan Adventist Hospital (TWAH) stands as a cornerstone of healthcare in Tsuen Wan district since its establishment in May 1964. It was the first private hospital in the New Territories under the Seventh-day Adventist Church. With a commitment to compassionate care and service, TWAH currently operates with 133 beds, offering a range of essential medical services. These include obstetrics, in-patient and day-case procedures, clinical laboratory services, outpatient care, an Invasive Center, health assessments, and diagnostic imaging.
Address: 199 Tsuen King Circuit, Tsuen Wan, Hong Kong
Opening hours: Varies by clinic. See the schedule and holidays here.
Contact number: 2275 6688
Email: enquiry@stpaul.org.hk
How to make an appointment: Via phone or email
Insurance and billing information: Offers direct billing. Accepts the majority of local insurers and various leading international insurance plans. See complete information here.
What happens at the clinic or hospital?
When you arrive, head to the information desk or reception. There you’ll need to sign some forms and describe your symptoms.
At a private institution, you will have to pay a deposit. As a tourist, this will be pretty steep — think HK$20,000.00 or more, with prices varying depending on the facility you choose.
An interpreter can be arranged in advance, or provided as necessary depending on the situation. For complete information on the service hours and languages available, see this page.
If it looks like you’ll need ongoing medical attention after returning home, ask for a medical certificate in your native language. This is generally available for an added cost (somewhere in the range of HK$200.00 ot HK$500.00, depending on where you choose to go).
After the consultation, head back to reception or the shroff (payment booth) to finalize the forms you need and to sort out payment.
Where do I get medication?
If you are prescribed medication at a public clinic, you’ll head to a pharmacy with your prescription and get your medication after a short wait. Most private clinics and hospitals can dispense medicine on site, or otherwise suggest a nearby pharmacy. Prepare for the cost to be separate to the consultation itself.
How do I claim for medical expenses?
Contact your insurance company after paying the clinic or hospital to make a claim. But if at all possible, it’s helpful to contact the insurance company in advance, to find out exactly what documents they’ll need.
You should be able to complete most of the procedures by submitting an insurance claim form with a medical certificate and/or receipt of your medical expenses in your native language. So make sure you keep all of your receipts and forms from the hospital and pharmacy.
What if it’s an emergency?
Call an ambulance. The emergency number in Hong Kong is 999.
Once you’re in the ambulance, the paramedics will try to find a hospital that can take you.
Frequently asked questions about healthcare for travelers
What are the fees for tourists a public hospitals and clinics?
See the complete fee chart here. If you do not have a valid HKID, you are considered a “non-eligible person” or NEP.
What if the hospital doesn’t have English-speaking staff?
English is an official language of the S.A.R. In general, doctors should be able to handle your case in English. However, keep in mind that nurses and other supporting staff may be more or less fluent in English.
What if I need assistance in languages besides English, Cantonese, or Mandarin?
The Hospital Authority of Hong Kong is able to provide interpretation services. For a complete list of the languages available, scenarios covered, and service hours, see this page. This applies to public institutions.
When it comes to private institutions, it’s best to communicate directly with the clinic or hospital.
What is a shroff?
In Hong Kong English, shroff means cashier, cashier’s office, or payment booth.
Do I need travel health insurance in Hong Kong?
Hong Kong does not legally require travelers to have travel health insurance. However, getting travel insurance is always a good idea. Note that insurance companies may provide lists of approved hospitals and clinics they have ties with. Also read the T&Cs around pre-existing conditions very carefully!
What should I do to prepare before my trip?
If you can, it’s a good idea to write down important medical information. Make sure to pack any relevant medical records and medications.
Important medical information to write down:
- Name
- Blood type
- Any illnesses currently being treated
- Any medicines or supplements you are taking
- Allergies
- Medical history (including major surgeries)
- Your religion
- Emergency contact information
Disclaimer:
This article is intended only as a basic guide to Hong Kong’s medical institutions for international travelers. We make every effort to ensure that the information presented here is accurate and up to date. However, all details are subject to change at any time. We recommend that you obtain professional advice regarding medical services or health insurance in Hong Kong. Fast Train Ltd. cannot guarantee the accuracy, currency, or completeness of any of the material and information in this article and accepts no responsibility or liability arising from or connected to the material provided above.
