Patient Q&A
Patient Q&A: Which number should I call in Shanghai if I need urgent medical help?
Official Shanghai guidance says patients should call 120 for emergency care and first aid. The city guide also notes that operators can connect callers to a third-party translator, although delays may occur.
Question: If I am in Shanghai and face a serious medical emergency, what is the official number to call?
Answer: International Services Shanghai says to call 120 when you need emergency care and first aid. The same official guide says the ambulance service is operated by the Shanghai Emergency Medical Center and that operators can connect callers to a third-party translator if needed, though delays may occur.
For planning, save the address of your accommodation and keep a passport copy and local contact number accessible. In critical situations, the nearest suitable hospital may be used first, so follow the emergency team's instructions and confirm non-emergency follow-up arrangements later with the hospital or insurer.