Huashan Hospital Shanghai: Asia's #1 Neurosurgery Center and Dermatology Powerhouse

When it comes to neurosurgery and dermatology in China, one name stands above the rest: Huashan Hospital in Shanghai. Founded in 1907, Huashan (复旦大学附属华山医院) is one of China's oldest Western medicine hospitals and remains a national leader in multiple specialties. Its International Medical Center has served over 1 million patients from 100+ countries since its founding in 1989.

What Makes Huashan Special?

#1 in Asia for Neurosurgery

Huashan's neurosurgery department is ranked #1 in Asia. With over 15,000 neurosurgeries performed annually, it is one of the busiest and most experienced neurosurgery centers in the world. The department pioneered minimally invasive neurosurgical techniques in China and covers the full spectrum of cranial and spinal conditions:

• Craniocerebral tumors (including skull base and deep-seated tumors)
• Cerebrovascular diseases (aneurysm clipping, AVM treatment)
• Functional neurosurgery (deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's, epilepsy surgery)
• Spinal cord tumors and degenerative spinal conditions

In 2025, Huashan performed China's first invasive brain-computer interface walking restoration surgery — the world's 4th such procedure, enabling a paralyzed patient to walk with neural signal-controlled exoskeleton assistance. (Source: MedChinaGuide, 2025)

National Leader in Dermatology

Huashan's dermatology department is one of the largest clinical and research centers for skin diseases in China, with 1.5 million+ annual visits. It serves as the National Quality Control Center for Skin Diseases and covers:

• Psoriasis, vitiligo, eczema, and atopic dermatitis
• Acne and rosacea
• Early skin cancer detection and laser surgery
• Photodynamic therapy and advanced laser treatments
• Allergy testing and desensitization therapy

Leading China's Brain Initiative

Huashan is at the forefront of China's brain science research. As a lead institution in the China Brain Initiative, the hospital conducts cutting-edge research in neurological disorders, brain-computer interfaces, and neurodegenerative diseases.

International Medical Center

Huashan's Worldwide Medical Center (华山医院国际医疗中心) was established in 1989, making it one of Shanghai's earliest international patient departments. It is one of 13 Shanghai hospitals designated under the city's International Medical Tourism pilot program (2024).

• Over 1 million medical services provided to patients from 100+ countries
• 16-language interpreter support (English, Japanese, Arabic, Spanish, Korean, and more)
• Direct billing with 56 international insurers (Aetna, Cigna, Bupa, Allianz, Ping An Global, etc.)
• 24/7 emergency services with international patient support
• Private consultations with same-day diagnostics (MRI, CT, lab work)

Costs for International Patients

How to Access Huashan as an International Patient

1. Call the International Medical Center: (+8621) 5288-9998 (Monday–Friday, 9:00–17:00, English available)
2. WeChat booking: Follow "复旦大学附属华山医院" → International Medical Center. New slots released daily at 18:00. Expert consultations: book up to 14 days ahead; general practitioners: up to 28 days ahead.
3. Emergency (24/7): (+8621) 6248-3986
4. Email: hwmc@huashan.org.cn
5. Documents needed: Original passport + visa copy + medical records (translation recommended) + insurance card
6. Address: 12 Wulumuqi Middle Road, Jing'an District, Shanghai

Who Should Choose Huashan?

• Neurosurgery patients: If you have a brain tumor, cerebral aneurysm, movement disorder, or spinal condition requiring surgery, Huashan is arguably the best choice in Asia.
• Dermatology patients: For complex or chronic skin conditions, especially those that haven't responded to treatment at home.
• Neurology patients: Stroke, epilepsy, Parkinson's, Alzheimer's, and other neurological conditions.
• Second opinions: If you've received a complex neurological diagnosis and want confirmation from Asia's leading center.

The Bottom Line

Huashan Hospital is Asia's top choice for neurosurgery and one of China's premier dermatology centers. With an International Medical Center that has served over 1 million patients from 100+ countries, 16-language support, and direct billing with 56 insurers, it offers a well-established pathway for international patients seeking world-class neurological and dermatological care in Shanghai.