Emergency care in Zhejiang: 120 calls, hospital choice and ambulance charges
An official English summary explains emergency dispatch, transport decisions, accessibility and public first-aid arrangements under Zhejiang’s regulation.
Published by CareAtlas · Editorial policy
People seeking medical care in Zhejiang and their companions can use 120 for a medical emergency. A March 4, 2026 English summary from the provincial government sets out the rules for dispatch, transport and public first aid under the regulation on pre-hospital emergency medical services, which took effect on December 1, 2025.
Calling for help and waiting for an ambulance
120 is linked with 110, 119 and 122 for a coordinated response. Ambulance dispatch centres operate around the clock and must respond without refusal, delay or passing the request elsewhere. While an ambulance is on its way, dispatchers may provide first-aid guidance by video or text. Nearby trained volunteers may also be called to assist before the vehicle arrives.
The rules include accessible emergency-call devices for people who need them: one-touch buttons, voice calls and text or Braille functions connected to 120.
Which hospital an ambulance will use
The usual destination is the nearest hospital appropriate for the patient’s condition. A patient may choose a specific hospital if they accept the risks involved. That preference is not absolute: doctors may override it in critical illness, infectious-disease control or government-commanded emergencies.
Hospitals must accept emergency patients and may not refuse or delay treatment.
Charges and insurance conditions
Ambulance charges follow government-set standards. If a vehicle has been dispatched but is not used, the caller must still pay the corresponding service fees. The summary also says eligible expenses may be covered by medical or work-injury insurance.
First aid in public places
Airports, metro stations, shopping centres, scenic areas, schools and other public venues must have automated external defibrillators (AEDs) and first-aid kits, with clear signs for their locations and use. Residential communities are encouraged to install AEDs as well.
The summary states that people offering voluntary first aid are protected from civil liability for unintended harm. Ambulances have road priority and may bypass certain traffic restrictions when safe; other vehicles must yield without being penalised for doing so.
The provincial government notes that this English account is for reference. If it differs from the Chinese regulation, the Chinese original governs.