Frequently Asked Questions

MediDocPH is a specialized service dedicated to connecting Filipino cancer patients with world-class, advanced oncological treatments in China. We act as a bridge, providing end-to-end support from the initial medical review to travel logistics and post-treatment coordination.

No, we are not a medical institution; we are a specialized medical tourism and patient advocacy facilitator. All medical diagnoses and treatments are performed by the licensed oncologists and specialists at our partner hospital, Jinshazhou Hospital of GZUCM.

No official referral is required to begin a consultation with us. However, having your most recent medical records, biopsy results, and imaging scans ready will significantly speed up the evaluation process by the medical team.

We are a team of healthcare advocates and international patient coordinators who specialize in oncology referrals. Our mission is to provide Filipinos with access to medical technologies and treatment protocols that may not currently be available or affordable locally.

Our focus is strictly on high-end oncology utilizing advanced radiation and minimally invasive technology. We provide a seamless 'concierge' experience, including Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) reviews and Filipino-specific logistical support that other general services may lack.

Yes, we adhere to strict confidentiality protocols. Your medical data is only shared with the specialized medical team at Jinshazhou Hospital involved in your care and is never disclosed to third parties without your explicit consent.

Only the MediDocPH case coordinators and the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) of doctors at Jinshazhou Hospital will have access to your records. This ensures that your diagnosis and treatment plan are handled only by authorized professionals.

We comply with the Philippine Data Privacy Act of 2012 regarding the collection and transmission of your data. In China, the hospital follows national healthcare privacy regulations to ensure your electronic medical records remain secure.

You may withdraw your consent at any time by contacting our data privacy officer in writing. Upon request, we will securely archive or delete your personal information from our active systems, subject to legal requirements for medical record retention.

Once you submit your records, your case is reviewed by a Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) at Jinshazhou Hospital. We then facilitate a video or detailed written consultation where the oncologist explains the proposed treatment plan and expected outcomes.

The initial review of your medical documents by our local team is typically free to determine eligibility. Detailed remote consultations or formal MDT reviews involving Chinese specialists may involve a professional fee, which will be disclosed upfront.

Please prepare the following:

• Most recent PET/CT or MRI scans, if available
• Pathology/biopsy reports
• Summary of previous treatments (chemotherapy, surgery, or other therapies)
• Clear list of current medications
• Detailed description of symptoms

Note: Patients admitted to GZUCM will undergo imaging as part of their standard clinical assessment — so do not worry if you do not have scans on hand. If you do, bring them along to China as they may provide useful context for the MDT.

Yes, we offer remote second opinions through our MDT review process. You can receive a comprehensive treatment recommendation from the Chinese oncology team based on your uploaded records without leaving the Philippines.

Typically, you will receive an initial assessment within 48 to 72 hours after submitting complete medical records. More complex cases requiring a full Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) review may take up to 5 business days.

After the review, you will receive a structured treatment proposal including the recommended technology (e.g., TomoTherapy), estimated duration of stay, and a cost breakdown. Our coordinators will then discuss the next steps for visa processing and travel if you choose to proceed.

Advanced procedures at Jinshazhou Hospital are typically 40% to 60% less expensive than comparable treatments in North America or Europe.

Why the Cost Difference?

• Government subsidies for public hospitals
• Lower operational costs in China
• Scale of medical infrastructure
• NOT a reduction in quality of care

Cost Comparison Examples:

CyberKnife Radiosurgery:

• United States: $25,000–$40,000
• Jinshazhou Hospital: $7,000–$10,000

TomoTherapy Advanced Radiotherapy Package:

• Jinshazhou Hospital: ~$3,000 (including consultation)

Quality Assurance:

• Hospital maintains JCI (Joint Commission International) standards
• US CAP (College of American Pathologists) laboratory accreditation
• Same internationally accredited technologies as Western hospitals

You receive world-class care at a fraction of Western prices.

While every case is unique, the typical range for a full course of advanced treatment is between $20,000 and $60,000 USD. This covers advanced diagnostics, specialized radiation (like TomoTherapy), and inpatient hospital fees.

Included in the estimate:

• Advanced medical procedures (radiotherapy, surgery, interventional oncology)
• Hospital room and inpatient stay
• Nursing care and monitoring
• Doctor and specialist fees
• Imaging and diagnostic testing
• Medications during hospitalization

NOT included:

• International airfare
• Visa and embassy fees
• Accommodation for companions (outside hospital)
• Personal daily expenses (meals, transport outside hospital)
• Travel insurance

A detailed cost breakdown will be provided as part of your personalized treatment plan.

Currently, the hospital requires payment for treatment cycles upfront or in stages. We can discuss the specific billing schedule of the hospital with you to help you plan your finances before you travel.

Prepare the following financial documents:

• Recent bank statement (within 3 months) showing sufficient funds
• Credit card(s) with international usage enabled and sufficient limits
• Proof of ability to conduct international wire transfers
• Insurance policy documents (if applicable)
• Employment letter or proof of financial stability

The Chinese Embassy may request a bank statement to verify financial capacity for the duration of your medical stay. Having these documents ready will expedite your visa application and hospital registration.

Most Philippine HMOs do not cover international treatment directly. However, we can provide the necessary itemized billing and medical reports in English to assist you in filing for a reimbursement claim, depending on your policy's international riders.

This is one of the most difficult situations a family can face abroad. There are several immediate options:

1. Restructure with the Hospital

• Contact the International Patient Office at Jinshazhou Hospital immediately
• They can modify the treatment plan to prioritize critical procedures
• Non-urgent sessions can be paused while a financial solution is arranged
• The hospital will not abandon a patient in crisis

2. Philippine Consulate Emergency Assistance

• Contact the Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou
• Assistance to Nationals (ATN) program provides emergency financial aid for repatriation
• Address: 5th Floor, Guangdong International Building, 339 Huanshi Dong Lu, Yuexiu District

3. OWWA Medical Assistance (for OFW members)

• Emergency medical and repatriation assistance available
• Contact OWWA through their website or hotline

4. Expedite Insurance Claims

• Request urgent advance from your insurer if policy is active
• Arrange direct hospital billing if available
• Provide necessary documentation immediately

5. Medical Repatriation

• Arrange medically supervised flight home if continued treatment is not viable
• Full English medical summary and imaging records provided
• Seamless handover to Philippine hospital for continued care

Prevention is Key:

We strongly advise all families to maintain a financial buffer of at least 20% above the quoted treatment cost to account for unexpected extensions or complications.

We strive for full transparency; the treatment plan will outline all major expected medical costs. Unforeseen costs usually only arise if there are complications requiring emergency care or additional medications not in the original protocol.

China offers access to some of the world’s most advanced radiation technologies and minimally invasive procedures at a fraction of the cost found in Western countries. Furthermore, their integrated approach combining Western medicine with traditional Chinese support often improves patient tolerance to treatment.

Patients are treated at the Jinshazhou Hospital of Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine (GZUCM). This is a tertiary Class-III hospital known for its state-of-the-art International Cancer Center and multidisciplinary approach.

The International Oncology Center offers:

Advanced Radiotherapy Systems:

• TomoTherapy (Helical Radiation)
• Varian TrueBeam
• Halcyon
• ICON Gamma Knife

Minimally Invasive Interventional Oncology:

• Cryoablation (freezing therapy)
• Seed implantation
• NanoKnife (Irreversible Electroporation)
• Microwave and radiofrequency ablation

Each technology is selected based on your specific cancer type and stage.

Treatment costs vary widely based on the cancer stage and technology required, but typically range from $20,000 to $60,000. This is often significantly more affordable than comparable high-tech radiation treatments in the US, Europe, or private local institutions.

Most treatment cycles require a stay of 3 to 6 weeks depending on the protocol. Some intensive radiation plans require daily sessions over several weeks, followed by a short observation period before you are cleared to fly back to the Philippines.

Yes, we coordinate with your local oncologist to ensure a smooth transition for follow-up care or maintenance therapy. You will be provided with a complete English medical transcript and imaging results to share with your local medical team.

The center treats a wide range of solid tumors, including lung, liver, breast, nasopharyngeal, pancreatic, and prostate cancers. They specialize in complex cases, recurrent tumors, and stage III or IV cancers that require precise, high-dose radiation.

Robotic Radiosurgery:

• Accuray CyberKnife M6 — tracks tumor movement in real-time, even during respiration
• Delivers radiation from thousands of angles with sub-millimeter precision
• Ideal for complex or moving tumors

Helical Radiotherapy:

• TomoTherapy (Helical Tomotherapy) — integrates linear accelerator with helical CT scanner
• Delivers 360-degree focal layer irradiation
• Maximizes tumor control while minimizing damage to healthy tissue

Linear Accelerator Systems:

• Varian TrueBeam — advanced image-guided radiotherapy
• Halcyon — high-speed, dose-guided system
• Both systems include AI-guidance for precision targeting

Each technology is selected based on your tumor location, size, and proximity to critical organs.

The Department of Minimally Invasive Interventional Oncology offers multiple options for inoperable tumors:

Electrical Ablation:

• NanoKnife (Irreversible Electroporation) — uses ultra-short, high-voltage electric fields
• Destroys cancer cells without damaging nearby nerves or bile ducts
• Ideal for tumors near critical structures

Thermal Ablation:

• Cryoablation (Argon-Helium Knife) — freezes tumors to extremely low temperatures
• Microwave Ablation (MWA) — uses thermal energy to destroy cells
• Radiofrequency Ablation (RFA) — generates heat within the tumor

Acoustic Ablation:

• Ultrasound-focused knife — uses focused sound waves
• Non-invasive with minimal surrounding tissue damage

Radioactive Seed Implantation:

• Iodine-125 particles placed directly into tumor
• Provides localized, sustained radiation
• Minimal damage to surrounding healthy tissue

Your MDT will recommend the best technique based on tumor type, location, and size.

Functional & Metabolic Imaging:

• Siemens PET-CT (Biograph mCT) — combined positron emission and CT scanning
• Fourth-generation PET-MR — simultaneous metabolic and structural imaging
• Detects cancer spread and assesses treatment response

Structural Imaging:

• 3.0T MRI — high-resolution soft tissue imaging
• Fourth-generation dual-source CT — ultra-fast, high-resolution scanning
• Siemens SOMATOM Confidence — four-dimensional CT with large aperture for simulation positioning

Advanced Genetic Diagnostics:

• Whole Exome Sequencing (WES) — analyzes entire genetic code
• Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS) — identifies specific mutations
• Capable of 2,600+ different diagnostic testing projects
• Enables personalized, mutation-targeted treatment selection

These technologies work together to provide comprehensive diagnosis and treatment planning.

Yes. The hospital's Intelligent Robot-Assisted Surgery Consultation Center is equipped with the Da Vinci Surgical System. This technology allows surgeons to perform highly precise, minimally invasive operations that are significantly less traumatic than traditional open surgery, resulting in reduced blood loss, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery.

The hospital provides targeted internal radiation therapies through its expanding nuclear medicine department. Available treatments include Yttrium-90 (90Y) therapy for liver cancer, Strontium-89 (89Sr) therapy for bone tumors, Iodine-131 (131I) therapy for thyroid cancer and hyperthyroidism, and Phosphorus-32 application therapy for skin-related diseases.

As a designated 120 Emergency Network Hospital, Jinshazhou Hospital employs advanced life-support systems for severe trauma and critical illness.

ICU Infrastructure:

• Class 100,000 laminar flow clean wards (highest sterility standards)
• Negative pressure rooms for infection control
• 24/7 monitoring and nursing care
• Emergency response teams available instantly

Critical Care Capabilities:

• Continuous Renal Replacement Therapy (CRRT) — for kidney support
• Advanced ventilators — for respiratory support
• Critical care ultrasound — for real-time assessment
• Hemodynamic monitoring — continuous blood pressure and heart function tracking

Artificial Liver Treatment:

• Plasma exchange — removes toxins and antibodies
• Bilirubin adsorption — reduces jaundice and liver failure symptoms
• Hemofiltration dialysis — supports kidney and liver function

These systems ensure that patients with complications receive world-class critical care without delay.

Department of Pain Management — Specialized Interventions:

• Ozone intervention therapy — reduces inflammation and pain
• Neuromodulation — electrical stimulation to block pain signals
• Patient-controlled epidural analgesia (PCEA) — self-administered pain relief
• Traditional herbal poultice applications — topical pain management

Addressed Conditions:

• Refractory cancer pain (pain resistant to standard treatment)
• Postherpetic neuralgia (nerve pain from shingles)
• Bone metastasis pain
• Post-surgical pain

Goal: Reduce reliance on systemic opioids where possible, improving quality of life and reducing side effects.

Post-Treatment Rehabilitation — Integrated Approach:

The hospital combines modern Western techniques with Traditional Chinese Medicine:

Western Rehabilitation:

• Robotic-assisted gait training
• Physical therapy and exercise
• Occupational therapy

Traditional Chinese Medicine:

• Acupuncture — stimulates healing meridians
• Tuina — therapeutic massage
• Moxibustion — heat therapy

Results: Patients recover mobility and function faster than conventional Western rehabilitation alone, with improved emotional well-being and reduced pain.

As a tertiary Class-III general hospital and an affiliate of the Guangzhou University of Chinese Medicine, the hospital utilizes a Parallel Development Model. TCM is not merely an alternative but a foundational component of the Multidisciplinary Team (MDT) approach. Every oncology case is reviewed to determine how traditional herbal medicine, acupuncture, and physical therapies can work synergistically with Western modalities like TomoTherapy and CyberKnife.

Integrative Oncology at Jinshazhou Hospital focuses on three core areas:

1. Toxicity Mitigation

• Reduce systemic side effects of chemotherapy and radiation
• Address leukopenia (low white blood cell count)
• Manage nausea and vomiting
• Treat radiation dermatitis (skin reactions)

2. Immune Modulation

• Utilize 'Fu Zheng' protocols (strengthening body's resistance)
• Stabilize the patient's internal environment during aggressive treatments
• Support immune function during recovery
• Enhance overall resilience to treatment stress

3. Symptom Management

• Address refractory cancer pain through traditional interventions
• Reduce post-surgical fatigue
• Improve sleep quality and emotional well-being
• Enhance patient comfort and quality of life

TCM is integrated with Western treatment, not used as a replacement.

TCM integration is managed through a joint effort between two departments. The Cancer Comprehensive Medical Department oversees internal herbal medicine and systemic integrative care. The Department of Rehabilitation Medicine provides physical traditional therapies including acupuncture, Tuina (therapeutic massage), and traditional analgesic techniques.

Yes. The International Oncology Center incorporates TCM into personalized clinical pathways for international patients. All TCM interventions are documented in a manner that provides clear clinical validation for the patient's home-country medical records, ensuring continuity of care upon return to the Philippines.

No. In accordance with institutional guidelines and international oncology standards, TCM is utilized strictly as a supportive and rehabilitative therapy — not as a primary treatment. The MDT specialists determine the optimal timing for integrating TCM into the primary Western treatment plan on a case-by-case basis.

Yes, Filipino citizens require a visa to enter China. We assist you in obtaining a China Visa for Medical treatment is S2 by providing the necessary official invitation letters from Jinshazhou Hospital.

You will generally need the following documents:

• Valid passport
• Official Hospital Invitation Letter from Jinshazhou Hospital
• Medical certificate from your local doctor
• Proof of financial capability (bank statement)
• Medical tourism health insurance (if applicable)

Our team provides a complete checklist and guides you through the entire application process at the Chinese Embassy.

Absolutely; we highly recommend having at least one companion for emotional and physical support. We assist in processing the dependent visa for your companion so they can stay with you throughout the duration of your treatment.

Yes. The hospital's international patient team includes multilingual staff fluent in English, Mandarin Chinese, and Cantonese. Dedicated English and Tagalog-speaking coordinators are also available specifically for Filipino patients. You will have support for medical translation during doctor rounds, clinical consultations, and daily needs. Cantonese support is particularly useful for Filipino families with Cantonese-speaking contacts in the Guangdong region.

Essential items to bring:

Clothing & Personal Items:

• Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing (for post-treatment comfort)
• Personal toiletries
• Any non-cancer related maintenance medications
• Comfortable walking shoes

Travel & Communication:

• Universal power adapter (China uses Type A/C/I plugs)
• Copies of all medical documents
• Insurance documents and contact information
• Roaming data plan or VPN for communication with home

The hospital will provide a detailed packing guide once your case is confirmed.

We provide a private airport pickup service for all our international patients. A coordinator will meet you at Guangzhou Baiyun International Airport (CAN) and take you directly to the hospital or your pre-arranged accommodation.

Patients usually stay in specialized VIP hospital suites designed for international guests. For companions or out-patients, we can help arrange nearby serviced apartments or hotels that are convenient for daily visits to the medical center.

The hospital will issue a Medical Certificate of Death immediately. The local Public Security Bureau (PSB) must then verify the death, after which you must notify the Philippine Consulate General in Guangzhou to begin canceling the passport and issuing a Consular Death Certificate. An official death certificate for international use is issued once both the police and the Consulate have cleared the case.

Families have three primary options:

Option 1: Body Repatriation (Casket)

• Embalming by licensed mortuary
• Zinc-lined, hermetically sealed casket
• International funeral director manages customs and Laissez-passer documentation
• Estimated cost: $5,000–$12,000 USD
• Timeline: 7–21 days

Option 2: Cremation & Ashes Repatriation

• Local cremation by accredited facility
• Ashes repatriated in standard urn
• Can often be carried as hand luggage with proper documentation
• Estimated cost: $800–$2,500 USD
• Timeline: 3–10 days (faster and more affordable)

Option 3: Local Burial in China

• Extremely limited option (rarely pursued)
• Requires Civil Affairs Bureau approval
• Designated cemeteries are few in Guangzhou area
• Estimated cost: $3,000–$8,000 USD
• Most suitable only when immediate repatriation is not feasible

For most Filipino families, cremation with ashes repatriation is the preferred option due to cost and speed.

Required documents (notarized copies):

Critical Documents:

• Original passport of the deceased (processed by the Consulate)
• Hospital's Medical Death Certificate
• Formal Death Certificate from the Public Security Bureau (PSB)
• Consular Mortuary Certificate from the Philippine Consulate

For Body Repatriation:

• Embalming Certificate from licensed mortuary
• Casket documentation and sealing certificate
• Airline death cargo documentation

For Cremation & Ashes:

• Cremation Certificate from accredited crematorium
• Urn documentation and sealing certificate

If Next-of-Kin Not Present:

• Notarized Power of Attorney (POA) authorizing a representative to handle matters

Our coordinators will assist in gathering and processing all required documentation.

Families should prepare for a processing time of 7 to 21 days. International paperwork, Embassy coordination, and securing airline 'human remains' cargo slots each take time. Repatriation of ashes is generally faster than body repatriation, as it involves fewer logistical requirements.

If the legal next-of-kin cannot be physically present in China, a notarized Power of Attorney (POA) is required. This authorizes a designated third party — such as a MediDocPH coordinator or a trusted person on the ground — to act on behalf of the family in handling all legal and logistical matters related to the remains.

If the patient held travel insurance or an international health insurance policy that includes repatriation coverage, contact the insurer immediately — they often manage the entire logistics chain and associated costs directly. Our coordinators can assist in providing the required documentation to support the insurance claim.

Yes, it is legally possible but extremely limited and rarely pursued. China does not have a widespread network of cemeteries accepting foreign nationals.

Process Requirements:

• Obtain approval from the local Civil Affairs Bureau (full discretion to deny)
• Identify a designated cemetery in Guangzhou or Foshan licensed for foreign burials
• Complete all standard death documentation (Medical Certificate, PSB Confirmation, Consular Death Certificate)
• Coordinate with licensed local funeral home for embalming and interment

Estimated Costs: $3,000–$8,000 USD

Cover:

• Cemetery plot
• Burial rights
• Funeral home services
• Administrative processing

Important Considerations:

• Cemetery plot fees are typically a fixed-term lease (20–50 years), NOT permanent ownership
• Ongoing maintenance fees apply annually
• Limited cemetery options available (few in Guangzhou area)
• Lengthy approval process (4–8 weeks)

When This Option Is Chosen:

Only when immediate repatriation is not feasible due to financial or logistical constraints. For most Filipino families, cremation with ashes repatriation remains the preferred option.

Costs vary significantly depending on the method chosen:

Body Repatriation (Casket)

• Estimated cost: $5,000–$12,000 USD
• Covers:
  • Embalming by licensed mortuary
  • Zinc-lined, hermetically sealed casket
  • International funeral director fees
  • Laissez-passer documentation
  • Airline cargo freight
• Timeline: 7–21 days

Cremation & Ashes Repatriation

• Estimated cost: $800–$2,500 USD (significantly more affordable)
• Covers:
  • Crematorium fee
  • Urn or container
  • Local permits and certificates
  • Standard airline seat or cargo slot
• Timeline: 3–10 days (faster)

NOT Included in These Costs:

• Philippine funeral home receiving fees
• Burial or cemetery costs upon arrival
• Viewing or wake expenses
• Memorial services

Insurance Coverage:

If the deceased had international travel insurance with a repatriation rider, these costs may be fully or partially covered by the insurer. Contact the insurance provider immediately.