MedBridge Shanghai · International medical facilitation platform recognized under Shanghai Government Document No. 32

INSURANCE

International insurance: direct billing and pre-authorization

Most international health policies cover overseas inpatient and surgical care — but only with prior authorization; without it, claims are often declined. We complete the pre-authorization before treatment starts so the hospital can bill your insurer directly at discharge, leaving you responsible only for the deductible or co-insurance.

100+

Insurers engaged

48h

Pre-auth submission

23

Direct-billing hospitals

1

Step 1 — Confirm the policy

Send the policy number, member card and benefits schedule. We check coverage for inpatient care in China, oncology treatment and pre-existing condition clauses.

2

Step 2 — Submit pre-authorization

The treating hospital issues the treatment plan and cost estimate; we compile them into the insurer's pre-authorization package and submit it.

3

Step 3 — Obtain approval

Insurers usually respond within 3–10 business days. If further documents are requested (pathology, prior records), we translate and submit them.

4

Step 4 — Direct billing

The hospital invoices the insurer per the approval; at discharge the patient settles only co-pay, deductible and non-covered items.

Typical policy types

International health insurance

Global or China-inclusive inpatient, surgical and selected drug cover, usually requiring pre-authorization.

Travel medical insurance

Covers emergencies and accidents during travel; planned oncology treatment is usually excluded and must be confirmed separately.

Employer group plan

Group medical cover purchased by an employer; requires authorization from HR or the broker.

Assistance & rescue organisations

Organisations such as International SOS, which approve medical transport and treatment costs case by case.

Documents for pre-authorization

  • Policy number, member card (front and back), benefits schedule
  • Passport bio page and contact details
  • Diagnosis certificate, pathology report, recent imaging (DICOM or reports)
  • Prior treatment records and medication list
  • Hospital treatment plan and cost estimate (we obtain these for you)

Please note

  • Direct billing availability, coverage ratio and limits are determined solely by your insurer's final approval; we make no commitment on the insurer's behalf.
  • Pre-existing conditions, experimental treatment and overseas care are frequently excluded; confirm in writing during pre-authorization.
  • If your insurer does not offer direct billing, we can help you pay first and then claim reimbursement with a complete document set.

Insurance FAQ

Will my policy cover treatment in China?

It depends on the territorial scope and exclusions. Most international health policies cover inpatient and surgical care in China subject to pre-authorization; travel policies usually exclude planned oncology treatment. Send us the policy and we will check free of charge.

How long does pre-authorization take?

Typically 3–10 business days with complete documents; longer if the insurer requests additional pathology or imaging.

What if direct billing is declined?

You can pay first and claim afterwards. Before discharge we prepare the full invoice set, medical records and a medical-necessity letter to reduce later disputes.

Do you charge for insurance assistance?

Policy checks and pre-authorization assistance are included in the service package at no extra charge; we receive no commission from insurers or hospitals.

Check your policy before scheduling treatment

Send your policy number and diagnosis; we will check coverage and pre-authorization feasibility free of charge.

Check my coverage