Nanfang Hospital of Southern Medical University

Welcome to Nanfang Hospital

Nestled at the foot of the picturesque Baiyun Mountain in Guangzhou, Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital stands as one of China's premier medical institutions. Founded in 1941 during a turbulent period of history as the Rear Hospital of the Third Division of the New Fourth Army, this hospital has evolved through decades of transformation to become a beacon of medical excellence in southern China.

The hospital carries a rich legacy. In 1975, it was designated as the First Affiliated Hospital of the First Military Medical University of the Chinese People's Liberation Army, operating publicly under the name "Nanfang Hospital." A significant transition occurred in 2004 when the hospital, along with its affiliated university, was transferred from military to civilian administration under Guangdong Province, adopting its current name: Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital.

Hospital Classification and Credentials

Type: Large-scale comprehensive teaching hospital

Classification: Grade 3A (三级甲等) — the highest hospital rating in China's healthcare system

Operational Nature: Non-profit public medical institution

Key Certifications:

• National Regional Medical Center Construction Output Hospital
• National Trauma Regional Medical Center (co-constructed with provincial authorities)
• National Traditional Chinese Medicine (Rheumatology) Diagnosis and Treatment Center
• National Difficult Disease (Oncology) Diagnosis and Treatment Capability Improvement Project Unit
• National Emergency Medical Rescue Base
• One of the first batch of "Top 100 Hospitals" in China
• National Pilot Hospital for Multi-disciplinary Tumor Diagnosis and Treatment (2018)
• Guangdong Provincial High-Level Hospital "Dengfeng Plan" Key Construction Unit

International Recognition:
The hospital has established long-term cooperative relationships with numerous renowned academic and medical institutions across the globe, facilitating regular exchange of experts and scholars for academic collaboration. In December 2025, the hospital officially unveiled its International Medical Department, marking a significant upgrade in its capacity to serve international patients.

Campus Environment and Facilities

A Garden-Style Medical Campus

Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital boasts the largest garden-style campus in Guangdong Province. The main hospital sits elegantly on Qilin Ridge at the eastern foot of Baiyun Mountain, offering patients a healing environment surrounded by natural beauty. The serene landscape provides a comforting backdrop for recovery, distinguishing it from typical urban medical facilities.

Comprehensive Infrastructure

The hospital operates across multiple campuses:

• Main Campus: Core diagnostic and treatment center
• Zengcheng Campus: Regional medical center
• Ganzhou Hospital (Jiangxi Province): Co-constructed National Regional Medical Center

Bed Capacity: Over 4,000 beds across all campuses (2,225 beds at main campus)

Annual Patient Volume: Exceeds 4 million outpatient visits

The Huichiao Medical Center (惠侨医疗中心), located within the hospital grounds, serves as a dedicated facility for patients from Hong Kong, Macao, Taiwan, overseas Chinese communities, and international visitors. This center represents the earliest and largest specialized medical facility of its kind in China, offering premium healthcare services in an elegant and comfortable environment.

Department Structure and Medical Specialties

Nanfang Hospital houses 52 specialized departments, covering virtually every medical discipline. The hospital's comprehensive structure ensures that patients receive integrated care regardless of their medical condition.

National Key Clinical Specialties

The following departments have received national recognition as key clinical specialties:

• Gastroenterology (Digestive Diseases) — National Key Discipline
• Orthopedics — National Ministry of Health Key Clinical Specialty
• Gynecology & Obstetrics
• Clinical Laboratory
• Pathology
• Nephrology — Home to the National Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease
• Hematology — Led by renowned experts in leukemia treatment
• Cardiovascular Medicine — Postdoctoral research station with doctoral degree authorization since 1994
• Neurology & Neurosurgery
• Organ Transplantation — Kidney, liver, and multi-organ combined transplantation
• Burns Treatment — Specialized in large-area burn救治
• Plastic & Reconstructive Surgery
• Medical Imaging
• Pharmacy

Specialized Centers

• Southern Digestive Disease Research Institute
• Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology
• Provincial and Ministerial Co-constructed Key Laboratory for Organ Failure Prevention
• National Osteoporosis Diagnosis and Treatment Research Center
• Baiyun Cerebrovascular Disease Hospital

Distinguished Medical Experts

Nanfang Hospital's reputation rests significantly on its exceptional medical talent. The hospital employs numerous nationally and internationally recognized specialists.

Notable Physicians

Professor Liu Qifa (刘启发)

• Academic Leader of the Hematology Department
• Lifetime Professor at Nanfang Hospital
• Selected as "National Outstanding Physician"
• Over 40 years of experience in hematology
• Pioneered precision diagnosis and treatment strategies for acute leukemia based on genetics and treatment response, improving long-term survival rates by over 15%
• Broke through bottlenecks in hematopoietic stem cell transplantation donor availability, reducing transplant-related mortality and disease recurrence, achieving an approximately 80% long-term survival rate for transplant patients

Professor Zhi Fachao (智发朝)

• Director of Southern Digestive Disease Research Institute
• Director of Guangdong Provincial Key Laboratory of Gastroenterology
• Recipient of State Council Special Government Allowance
• National Health Commission Outstanding Young and Middle-aged Expert
• Principal Investigator for National "863 Program" Major Projects
• Renowned for expertise in digestive endoscopy and minimally invasive procedures

Professor Pan Suyue (潘速跃)

• Director of Neurology Department
• Dean of Baiyun Cerebrovascular Disease Hospital
• Chief Physician and Doctoral Supervisor
• Specialist in neurological critical care and complex neurological disorders
• Contributed to writing "China Critical Care Brain Disease Guidelines."

Professor Lei Shangtong (雷尚通)

• Specialist in thyroid and parathyroid diseases
• Member of the National Committee of Thyroid Disease Branch of China International Exchange and Promotive Association for Medical and Health Care
• Expert in thyroid cancer surgery, endoscopic thyroid procedures, and complex neck surgeries

Dr. Chen Shijun (陈始均)

• Attending Physician in the Urology Department
• Recognized as one of the "Top 10 Chief Residents" at Nanfang Hospital
• Completed over 3,000 minimally invasive urological surgeries
• Specializes in urinary stones, tumors, and chronic pelvic pain syndrome

Technical Advantages and Specialized Therapies

Core Technical Strengths

Nanfang Hospital has developed distinctive technical capabilities across multiple medical domains:

Digestive Disease Treatment
The hospital leads in digestive endoscopy, offering advanced minimally invasive procedures that allow direct visualization and treatment of gastrointestinal conditions while preserving organ integrity and function.

Organ Transplantation
The transplant center performs kidney, liver, and multi-organ combined transplantations with excellent outcomes. Recent achievements include successful heart transplantation procedures, demonstrating the hospital's expanding capabilities in this complex field.

Hematology and Stem Cell Transplantation
The hematology department has revolutionized leukemia treatment through genetics-based precision medicine, significantly improving patient survival rates and establishing new national and international treatment guidelines.

Orthopedic and Spine Surgery
The spine orthopedics department holds multiple national and provincial designations as a key specialty, offering advanced treatments for spinal disorders, osteoporosis, and traumatic injuries.

Cardiovascular Interventions
The cardiovascular department specializes in interventional cardiology, including coronary interventions, with state-of-the-art catheterization laboratories.

Neurosurgery and Stroke Treatment
Advanced capabilities in treating cerebrovascular diseases, brain tumors, and neurological emergencies are supported by the dedicated Baiyun Cerebrovascular Disease Hospital.

Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine
The hospital actively explores combining traditional Chinese medicine with modern Western medical approaches, particularly in rehabilitation, chronic disease management, and preventive care.

Cutting-Edge Technology

• 5G-Enabled Remote Medical Consultations — Connecting with over 150 healthcare institutions across Guangdong, Yunnan, Hainan, and other provinces
• Robotic Surgery Systems — For precision minimally invasive procedures
• Advanced Imaging — Including PET-CT, MRI, and specialized diagnostic equipment
• Molecular Diagnostics — Supporting precision medicine approaches
• International Drug Access — Through the "Hong Kong-Macao Medicine and Equipment Connection" policy, providing access to innovative medications not yet available in mainland China

International Patient Services

Huichiao Medical Center — International Medical Department

The Huichiao Medical Center serves as the primary gateway for international patients. In December 2025, the center officially launched its upgraded International Medical Department, demonstrating the hospital's commitment to serving the global community.

Service Features:

• Bilingual medical services (Chinese and English)
• Direct billing with international insurance providers
• Multi-disciplinary team consultations for complex cases
• 24-hour service availability
• Dedicated reception and coordination staff
• Comprehensive health examination services
• Full-cycle health management

International Reach:
The center has provided medical services to patients from 94 countries, demonstrating its extensive experience in cross-cultural healthcare delivery.

Contact Information for International Patients

Main Hospital Address:
No. 1838, Guangzhou Avenue North, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China
Postal Code: 510515

General Inquiry Hotline:
+86-20-61641888

Huichiao Medical Center:
Located within the main hospital campus
Specialized services for international patients, overseas Chinese, and patients from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan

Email:
webmaster@nfyy.com

International Cooperation Office (Southern Medical University):
Address: No. 1023-1063, Shatai South Road, Baiyun District, Guangzhou
Contact: +86-20-6164XXXX (for academic and institutional partnerships)

Registration and Appointment Procedures for International Patients

Multiple Booking Channels

International patients have several convenient options for scheduling appointments:

1. WeChat Official Account

• Follow the official "Nanfang Hospital" (南方医院) or "Guangzhou Health Pass" (广州健康通) WeChat public account
• Navigate to the appointment booking section
• Select your preferred department and physician
• Complete registration with passport information

2. Telephone Booking

• Call +86-20-61641888
• Follow the automated prompts or speak with a customer service representative
• International patients may request English-speaking staff assistance

3. On-Site Registration

• Visit the hospital's manual registration windows
• Use self-service kiosks located throughout the hospital
• International Patient Service Desk at Huichiao Medical Center provides dedicated assistance

4. Online Platform

• Access the hospital's official website
• Use the Guangzhou Unified Appointment Registration Platform (guahao.wjw.gz.gov.cn)

Recommended Process for International Patients

Step 1: Pre-Arrival Preparation

• Contact the International Medical Department via email or phone
• Provide medical history and current condition summary
• Request assistance with appointment scheduling
• Inquire about insurance coverage and payment options

Step 2: Document Preparation

• Valid passport
• Visa documentation (if applicable)
• Previous medical records (translated into English or Chinese if possible)
• Insurance information
• Referral letters from home country physicians (if available)

Step 3: Arrival and Registration

• Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment
• Visit the International Patient Service Desk at Huichiao Medical Center
• Complete registration formalities
• Receive your hospital card and appointment confirmation

Step 4: Consultation and Treatment

• Meet with your assigned physician
• Undergo necessary examinations and tests
• Discuss treatment options with the medical team
• Receive a detailed treatment plan and follow-up instructions

Step 5: Payment and Discharge

• Settle medical bills at the designated payment counters
• International insurance direct billing available for partner providers
• Obtain medical reports and prescriptions
• Schedule follow-up appointments if needed

Location and Transportation

Geographic Position

Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital is strategically located in Baiyun District, Guangzhou, one of China's most vibrant international cities. The hospital's position at the foot of Baiyun Mountain provides both accessibility and a peaceful environment.

Address: No. 1838, Guangzhou Avenue North, Baiyun District, Guangzhou, Guangdong Province, China

Transportation Options

By Bus:
Multiple bus routes serve the hospital directly:

• Routes: 32, 47, 56, 179, 219, 232, 241, 296, 833, 836, 862, 862B, 126, 136, 502, 503, 509, 804, 804A, 804B
• Night routes: Night 14, Night 24, Night 47
• Stop: "Nanfang Hospital Station" (南方医院站)
• Alternative: Route 560 to "157 Hospital Station," then walk 200 meters forward

By Metro:

• Nearest metro station: Jingxi Nanfang Hospital Station (Line 3)
• Short walk from the metro exit to the hospital entrance

By Taxi:

• Show the address in Chinese to taxi drivers: 广州市广州大道北1838号南方医科大学南方医院
• Approximately 40 minutes from Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport
• Approximately 30 minutes from Guangzhou East Railway Station
• Approximately 45 minutes from Guangzhou South Railway Station

By Private Car:

• Parking facilities available on hospital grounds
• GPS navigation: Search "南方医科大学南方医院" or "Nanfang Hospital."

Patient Testimonials and International Feedback

What International Patients Say

The hospital's International Medical Department has garnered positive feedback from patients across the globe. While specific individual testimonials are protected for privacy reasons, the hospital's continued growth in international patient volume speaks to its reputation.

Common Themes in Patient Feedback:

Professional Expertise
International patients frequently commend the high level of medical expertise, particularly in complex cases requiring multi-disciplinary approaches. The hospital's ranking among China's top 20 hospitals (consistently around 15th-18th position in the Fudan University Hospital Rankings) reflects this excellence.

Comprehensive Care
Patients appreciate the integrated approach to treatment, where multiple specialists collaborate to develop comprehensive treatment plans. The multi-disciplinary team (MDT) model ensures that complex conditions receive thorough evaluation from various perspectives.

Facility Quality
The garden-style campus and modern facilities receive consistent praise. Patients note the clean, well-maintained environment and the availability of advanced medical technology.

Cultural Sensitivity
The Huichiao Medical Center's long history of serving international patients (dating back to its establishment as one of China's first specialized facilities for overseas patients) has created a culture of cultural awareness and sensitivity among staff members.

Value for Money
Compared to similar quality healthcare in Western countries, many international patients find the cost-to-quality ratio at Nanfang Hospital to be highly favorable.

Frequently Asked Questions for International Patients

Q1: Do you provide English-speaking medical staff?

A: Yes. The International Medical Department at Huichiao Medical Center employs bilingual staff members who can communicate in English. For specialized consultations, the hospital can arrange for English-speaking physicians or provide professional medical translation services. It is recommended to request English-speaking staff when making your appointment.

Q2: Can I use my international health insurance?

A: The hospital has established direct billing partnerships with several international insurance providers. Contact the International Patient Service Desk before your visit to verify whether your insurance is accepted. If direct billing is not available, you can pay upfront and submit claims to your insurance provider for reimbursement.

Q3: How do I obtain my medical records for use in my home country?

A: Medical records can be requested at the Medical Records Department. The hospital can provide records in both Chinese and English. There may be a processing fee and a waiting period of 3-5 business days. For official translations, the hospital can recommend certified translation services.

Q4: What payment methods are accepted?

A: The hospital accepts multiple payment methods, including:

• Cash (Chinese Yuan/RMB)
• International credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express)
• Mobile payment platforms (WeChat Pay, Alipay)
• Bank transfers
• Direct insurance billing (for partner providers)

Q5: Can family members accompany me during consultations?

A: Yes, family members are welcome to accompany patients during consultations. However, due to space limitations in consultation rooms, we recommend limiting accompanying persons to 1-2 individuals.

Q6: How long does a typical consultation take?

A: Initial consultations typically last 20-30 minutes, depending on the complexity of your condition. Follow-up appointments may be shorter. For multi-disciplinary consultations, please allow 1-2 hours.

Q7: Do you provide visa invitation letters for medical treatment?

A: Yes, the hospital can provide medical treatment invitation letters to support visa applications. Contact the International Patient Service Desk at least 2 weeks before your planned visit to arrange this documentation.

Q8: What should I do in case of a medical emergency?

A: For emergencies, proceed directly to the Emergency Department, which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. The emergency hotline is +86-20-61641888. International patients receive priority attention, and English-speaking staff can be summoned if needed.

Q9: Can I schedule follow-up appointments after returning to my home country?

A: Yes. The hospital offers telemedicine consultation services for follow-up care. You can schedule video consultations through the hospital's online platform. Medications can be prescribed and coordinated with local pharmacies in your country when possible.

Q10: Are there accommodation options near the hospital for patients and families?

A: Yes. The hospital area has numerous hotels ranging from budget to luxury options. The International Patient Service Desk can provide recommendations and assist with booking. Some patients choose to stay at the Huichiao Medical Center's affiliated accommodation facilities when available.

Additional Resources and Support

Patient Support Services

• Interpreter Services: Professional medical interpreters available upon request
• Patient Advocates: Dedicated staff to assist with navigating the healthcare system
• Cultural Liaison: Staff members familiar with various cultural backgrounds and customs
• Pharmacy Services: International medication sourcing assistance
• Rehabilitation Coordination: Connection with rehabilitation facilities for post-treatment care

Research and Innovation

Nanfang Hospital is not only a treatment center but also a research powerhouse. The hospital houses:

• National Clinical Research Center for Chronic Kidney Disease
• Provincial and Ministerial Co-constructed Key Laboratory for Organ Failure Prevention
• Multiple postdoctoral research stations
• Active participation in international clinical trials

This research focus ensures that patients have access to cutting-edge treatments and innovative therapeutic approaches.

Academic Partnerships

The hospital maintains collaborative relationships with medical institutions worldwide, including partnerships with universities and hospitals in:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Australia
• Singapore
• Japan
• European Union countries

These partnerships facilitate knowledge exchange, physician training, and access to global medical advancements.

Planning Your Visit: A Quick Checklist

Before Departure:

• Contact the International Medical Department
• Verify insurance coverage
• Gather medical records and test results
• Obtain a visa invitation letter (if needed)
• Book accommodation near the hospital
• Arrange airport transfer

Upon Arrival:

• Register at the International Patient Service Desk
• Complete hospital card registration
• Confirm appointment schedule
• Meet with the assigned patient coordinator

During Treatment:

• Attend all scheduled appointments
• Keep copies of all medical documents
• Maintain communication with the patient coordinator
• Follow medication and treatment instructions

Before Departure:

• Obtain complete medical records
• Schedule follow-up telemedicine appointments
• Get prescription medications for travel
• Receive discharge summary in English
• Confirm insurance claim documentation

Conclusion

Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital represents a convergence of medical excellence, advanced technology, and compassionate care. With over 80 years of history, the hospital has evolved from its military origins to become one of China's leading medical institutions, consistently ranking among the nation's top 20 hospitals.

For international patients, the Huichiao Medical Center's International Medical Department provides a welcoming gateway to world-class healthcare. The hospital's commitment to serving patients from 94 countries demonstrates its global perspective and cultural competence.

Whether you seek treatment for complex conditions, advanced surgical procedures, or comprehensive health evaluations, Nanfang Hospital offers the expertise, technology, and supportive environment necessary for optimal health outcomes. The combination of experienced physicians, cutting-edge facilities, and dedicated international patient services makes this institution an excellent choice for medical care in southern China.

For the most current information, please visit the official website or contact the International Medical Department directly. Medical services, physician schedules, and policies may be subject to change.

Disclaimer: This guide is for informational purposes only. Medical services, physician availability, insurance partnerships, and hospital policies are subject to change. Please contact Southern Medical University Nanfang Hospital directly for the most current information before planning your visit.

Document dated 2026-03-25 14:47 Modify