A Visit to the 306 Hospital

What to Bring

• Medical Insurance Card: For reimbursement of partial costs.
• Smartphone: For retrieving registration numbers and paying for medication.
• ID Card: In case of unexpected requirements.

Step-by-Step Process

1. Appointment: Use the official WeChat account 解放军战略支援部队特色医学中心 for online appointments. Note: You must book at least one day in advance; same-day appointments are not allowed. Alternatively, use 114 Registration.

   • Recommendation: I found 114 Registration to provide a much better user experience with clearer information on available slots. Scan the QR code below via WeChat to access it:

     

2. Pre-screening: Fill out the pre-screening form (formerly for COVID-19). Note: This is no longer required as of late.

3. Check-in: Go to the outpatient building and use the self-service machines to retrieve your registration number.

4. Queueing: Proceed to the designated waiting area as indicated on your ticket and check in with the nurse station.

5. Consultation: Wait for your number to be called and enter the consultation room.

6. Payment: Take the prescription/order from the doctor and pay at the self-service machines in the outpatient building. Note: Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) orders may require manual queueing at a counter.

7. Pharmacy: Pick up your medication at the pharmacy counter as per your payment receipt.

8. Invoices: If you need to file a claim with commercial insurance, visit the designated window in the outpatient building to get a printed invoice (including the registration fee).

Critical Observations

1. Official Website Performance: The official appointment site is incredibly slow. Users might easily mistake it for a dead link or a device issue. Stick to 114 instead.
2. Lack of Clear Communication: There’s confusing messaging about onsite vs. online appointments. I waited 30 minutes in a queue marked “Registration” only to be told I had to book online. Hospitals should provide clear, large signage for these policies.
3. Inefficient Payment Systems: The 30+ minute queue for payment is inexcusable in the digital age. This is particularly difficult for elderly patients who may struggle with technology or have hearing issues.
4. Counter Allocation: As a military hospital, prioritizing personnel is expected. However, when the “General” counter has a massive queue and the two “Military” counters are empty, management should dynamically reassign staff to alleviate the pressure.
5. Flow Management: Many people in queues are simply there to ask questions because they lack information. Increasing the number of mobile medical staff to assist patients in the halls would significantly improve overall efficiency.
6. Doctor Conduct: While I understand doctors are overworked, a heavy workload is no excuse for a hostile or dismissive attitude toward paying patients.

Final Thoughts

The management needs a serious reality check. The leaders should go through the entire process as an ordinary patient to understand where the system is failing.