When illness strikes in a foreign country, language barriers, unfamiliar surroundings, and uncertainty about medical procedures can often double a person's anxiety.

A few days ago, a patient from Indonesia (pseudonym L) visited our hospital for shoulder pain. When she learned after consultation that surgery would be required, she broke down in tears from worry. But through our international medical services, she experienced a level of compassionate care that exceeded all her expectations.

Thinking It Was Just Ordinary Shoulder Soreness, Clinic Examination Revealed Tendinitis

This Indonesian patient is a foreign teacher working at a school in China. She has a lovely baby, and due to frequently carrying her child, she had been experiencing persistent shoulder soreness recently. She decided to seek examination at a proper hospital.

Patient L came to our orthopedics outpatient clinic. After a detailed physical examination and imaging studies, Director Lu diagnosed her with calcific tendinitis. The pain had worsened to the point where she could barely lift her arm, and prompt surgical treatment was necessary.

Full English-Language Support Eases the Anxiety of the Unfamiliar

Upon arriving at an unfamiliar hospital, the combination of shoulder pain and the diagnosis requiring surgery — plus the thought of her baby waiting at home — left L so anxious that she cried. But this anxiety was quickly dispelled by our hospital's comprehensive English-language services and compassionate care.

From physicians and case managers (CMs) to rehabilitation therapists, all can communicate fluently in English without barriers. Among them, Case Manager Ms. Zhou provided her with tremendous comfort and support. Ms. Zhou promptly reassured the patient and explained that the surgical procedure would be quick, with only 2–3 days of hospitalization required. From insurance coordination to clarifying treatment details and scheduling surgery, full English communication and clear explanations gradually transformed L's worry into peace of mind.

Recalling that day at the clinic, L said: "Coming here for medical care is really convenient, especially since so many people speak English — there's no communication barrier. Ms. Zhou's English is excellent. She helped translate and coordinate everything throughout the entire process. Even while waiting for surgery, she kept comforting me and checked on me with messages from time to time. She made me feel secure every single minute."

It was this seamless communication and constant care that helped L transition from initial fear and anxiety to a sense of calm and reassurance.

Efficient Diagnosis + Superior Pain Management — Postoperative Experience Exceeds Expectations

Beyond smooth communication, our hospital's efficient care coordination left a deep impression on the patient. From insurance coordination and treatment details to final surgery scheduling, the entire process moved very quickly, with everyone doing their utmost to advance the case. Ultimately, the patient underwent surgery the very next day after her outpatient visit.

During the procedure, Director Lu used arthroscopy to remove calcific deposits and release the tendon. After surgery, Patient L felt no discomfort in her shoulder at all — the superior analgesic effect came as a wonderful surprise!

This remarkable pain relief comes from nerve block anesthesia technology. Targeting the surgical site, the anesthesiologist selects the corresponding nerves for blocking, enabling patients to experience a virtually "pain-free" state both during and after surgery.

On the day after surgery, professional rehabilitation therapist Ms. Yu provided L with non-invasive physiotherapy and evidence-based rehabilitation guidance to help her better restore functional mobility.

Sincere Recommendation: For Bone and Joint Issues, This Is the Place to Go

From anxious tears to peaceful recovery, our hospital not only helps foreign patients treat their conditions but also lets them experience warmth that transcends national borders. Our orthopedics department offers comprehensive multilingual medical services, dedicated to ensuring that every patient — both domestic and international — can enjoy efficient, professional, and reassuring healthcare.

Professional Reviewing Physician

Scope of Services

Foot and Ankle Disorders | Lower Limb Deformity Correction | Knee and Hip Disorders Spinal Disorders | Upper Limb Disorders | Sports Medicine Neck and Lower Back Pain | Fracture Treatment | Rehabilitation Center

Disclaimer

All information in this article is for reference only. It does not constitute advertising or intent regarding the use of any medications, medical techniques, surgical equipment, or diagnostic methods. It is not intended as a basis for individual diagnosis, medication, or treatment, and cannot replace diagnosis or advice from physicians and other medical professionals. If you have similar conditions or related needs, please be aware that diagnosis and treatment require visiting a hospital and receiving professional medical services. Due to individual physiological differences, please understand that the personal experiences and subjective descriptions mentioned in this article may not necessarily be achieved or fully applicable to you, nor do they represent any guarantee or promise regarding your expected outcomes.