Tibet Medical Treatments, Tibet Hospitals
With the continuous efforts of Tibetan people and the financial and material help of other Chinese people, conditions of health facilities in Tibet have considerably improved in recent years. A complete network of hospitals, public health centers, clinics and other medical institutions at levels of province, city, county and township have long been well established. The population of doctors, dentists, nurses per 1,000 persons has grown to even larger than that of some other provinces in China. The professional quality of hospital personnel is also on the rise. Many of them have produced remarkable achievements in their fields. Medical equipment has developed greatly; some of it further advanced compared with many other places in the world. More medical infrastructures are provided to satisfy the needs of patients.
Like other hospitals, hospitals in Tibet are divided into several departments, such as Medical Department, Surgical Department, Dental Department, Dermatology Department, and Department of Gynecology. Some hospitals mix Tibetan Medicine, Chinese Herbal Medicine and Western Medicine together with surprisingly good outcomes. Some hospitals feature in research on the unique functions of Tibetan Medicine.
Presently, in Lhasa hospital facilities include the People's Hospital of TAR (Tibet Autonomous Region), the Second People's Hospital of TAR, the People's Hospital of Lhasa, and the General Hospital of Tibetan Military Region. Patients receive a warm reception and careful treatment in these hospitals. Hospital conditions in remote counties may not as good as those of Tibet and in mountainous areas; one may not access any medical service. Accordingly, tourists should take with them necessary medicines.
Hospitals in Tibet
Urban centers like Lhasa and Shigatse are home to larger hospitals with modern equipment and highly trained staff. These hospitals offer comprehensive medical services across various departments, including surgery, gynecology, and dental care. In contrast, rural areas often rely on smaller clinics or township hospitals, which provide basic medical treatments but may lack specialized equipment or advanced care. Efforts are ongoing to improve rural healthcare access through mobile clinics and telemedicine initiatives.
Language can be a challenge for travelers seeking medical care in Tibet, as most healthcare professionals speak Tibetan or Mandarin. However, in major hospitals in Lhasa, some doctors and staff may have basic proficiency in English, particularly in departments that cater to foreign visitors. It is advisable for travelers to have a translator or guide available in case of medical emergencies in rural areas, where English-speaking doctors are extremely rare.
Lhasa People's Hospital
Lhasa People's Hospital is one of the major healthcare institutions in Tibet, located in the heart of Lhasa. Equipped with modern medical equipment, Lhasa People's Hospital provides reliable healthcare for both locals and travelers.
Address: No. 1, Beijing Donglu, Lhasa
Tel: 86-891-6323811 (Emergency Department)
Tibet Autonomous Region People’s Hospital
TAR People’s Hospital is another prominent medical facility located in Lhasa, serving as a regional center for healthcare and medical research. This hospital boasts a well-established infrastructure, with departments specializing in internal medicine, surgery, emergency services, and traditional Tibetan medicine. Emergency care is a major focus here, and the hospital is equipped to treat serious conditions, including altitude sickness and injuries. It also plays a critical role in medical training and research, contributing to the development of healthcare in the region.
Address: No. 18, Linkuo Beilu, Lhasa
Tel: 86-891-6322200 (Emergency Department), 86-891-6322177
The Military Hospital Dental Clinic
The Military Hospital Dental Clinic is the only dental facility in Central Tibet that meets Western standards, making it a key option for travelers and locals seeking reliable dental care. Located near the Holiday Inn on Beijing Xi Lu in Lhasa, the clinic offers professional dental services with modern equipment, providing a level of care that is often hard to find elsewhere in the region. This makes it an important resource for those who may need dental treatments during their stay in Tibet.
Traditional Tibetan Medicine (TTM)
Traditional Tibetan Medicine (TTM) is one of the oldest healing systems in the world, deeply rooted in the Buddhist philosophy of maintaining balance between the body, mind, and environment. It combines ancient knowledge of anatomy, pathology, and natural remedies to address various ailments. TTM emphasizes holistic care, using herbal remedies, dietary adjustments, and lifestyle changes as part of the treatment process. Key therapies include herbal medicine, acupuncture, cupping, and moxibustion—a practice that involves burning specific herbs close to the skin to stimulate healing.
Overview of Herbal Remedies, Acupuncture, and Other Traditional Therapies
Herbal remedies form the cornerstone of TTM, using a wide range of plants, minerals, and animal products to create complex formulas tailored to each patient’s unique condition. Commonly used herbs include rhodiola, saffron, and goji berries, which are believed to restore balance and vitality. Acupuncture, another core therapy, involves inserting fine needles into specific points on the body to regulate energy flow and relieve pain. Cupping and moxibustion are also frequently employed to enhance circulation and reduce inflammation. These therapies are often used in combination with meditation and spiritual practices to promote overall well-being.
How TTM is Integrated with Modern Healthcare
In Tibet, TTM and modern Western medicine are often used in conjunction. Many hospitals and clinics offer integrated treatment plans that combine traditional herbal remedies with Western diagnostics and medications. For example, patients suffering from chronic conditions may receive herbal treatments alongside conventional therapies to manage symptoms and improve recovery. This complementary approach has shown promising results, particularly in treating high-altitude illnesses, digestive disorders, and stress-related conditions. In urban areas like Lhasa, some hospitals have dedicated departments for TTM, reflecting the ongoing collaboration between these two healthcare systems.
Famous Tibetan Medicine Centers
One of the most well-known centers for TTM is Mentsekhang Tibetan Hospital, founded in 1916 in Lhasa. Mentsekhang serves as both a hospital and a training center, specializing in traditional Tibetan medical treatments and the production of herbal medicines. It provides care for a wide range of conditions and is a popular choice for both locals and tourists seeking natural therapies. It is open from Monday to Saturday from 9:30 am to 1:30 pm and from 3:30 pm to 6:00 pm.
Tel: 86-891-6324211 (Emergency Department), 86-891-6323244
Other notable centers include the Tibet Traditional Hospital in Lhasa and regional TTM clinics in Shigatse and surrounding areas. These institutions offer consultations, treatment, and a chance to explore the benefits of Tibetan medicine.
Address: No. 03 Middle Jiefang Road, Shigatse
Tel: 0892-8822858
When to Consider TTM vs. Modern Medicine
While TTM is highly effective for many conditions, there are times when modern medicine is preferable, particularly in emergencies or when surgical intervention is required. TTM is ideal for treating chronic conditions, digestive disorders, stress-related issues, and enhancing overall health. However, for acute illnesses or injuries, altitude sickness, or infections, modern medicine’s rapid diagnostics and treatments are necessary. Travelers may choose to combine TTM with Western treatments for a more holistic approach, particularly when managing non-urgent conditions.
Emergency Medical Services in Tibet
Emergency medical services in Tibet can be accessed by dialing 120, the national emergency number for medical assistance. Major hospitals in Lhasa, such as Lhasa People's Hospital and Tibet Autonomous Region People’s Hospital, are equipped to handle medical crises, including altitude sickness and severe injuries. For minor emergencies, travelers can visit local clinics, but for serious medical situations, it is advisable to head to a major hospital or contact emergency services immediately.
Limitations of Emergency Response in Remote Areas
Emergency medical response in Tibet’s rural and mountainous regions presents significant challenges. Remote areas often have limited medical facilities, and reaching them can be difficult due to rough terrain and harsh weather conditions. In some cases, medical personnel may take hours or even days to arrive, depending on the location. Travelers in these regions must be prepared for delays in medical assistance and should carry a well-stocked first-aid kit. It is also advisable to have a satellite phone or GPS device to contact emergency services when standard cell phone coverage is unavailable.
Medical Evacuation Services
Several companies offer medical evacuation services in Tibet, providing air or ground transport in the case of serious medical emergencies. These companies specialize in moving patients from remote areas to larger cities like Lhasa, or even to medical facilities in mainland China, depending on the severity of the situation. Services like Global Rescue, SOS International, and MedjetAssist are some options for medical evacuation coverage. It is important for travelers to verify that their travel insurance policy includes such services, particularly if planning to visit rural areas or engage in physically demanding activities such as trekking.
Travel Insurance
Comprehensive travel insurance is essential for anyone visiting Tibet due to the region's high altitude and remote locations. Standard travel insurance may not cover high-altitude sickness or the specific medical needs of travelers in Tibet, so it is crucial to select a policy that includes coverage for altitude sickness, accidents, and emergency evacuations. Given the challenging terrain and the potential for delays in receiving medical attention in rural areas, having insurance that covers medical evacuations is particularly important. Without proper coverage, medical treatment and evacuation can be costly and difficult to arrange.
Tips for Staying Healthy in Tibet
Pre-trip Health Preparations
It is also advisable to schedule a physical check-up to assess overall health and fitness, particularly if traveling to high-altitude areas. Discussing altitude sickness with a healthcare provider is important, and travelers should consider carrying medications like acetazolamide (Diamox) to help prevent altitude sickness. Additionally, bringing personal medications, especially for chronic conditions, is essential as certain medications may not be readily available in Tibet.
Fitness Preparations to Handle High Altitude
Preparing physically for Tibet's high altitude is crucial, especially for those planning to trek or visit remote regions. Travelers should engage in cardiovascular exercises such as hiking, swimming, or running to improve lung capacity and stamina. Building endurance before the trip will help the body adapt more easily to Tibet's thin air. It is also recommended to gradually acclimatize upon arrival by spending a few days at lower altitudes before moving to higher elevations. Adequate rest and hydration are important during the first few days to allow the body to adjust.
What to Do in Case of Sickness
If a traveler becomes sick while in Tibet, it is essential to take immediate steps to manage symptoms and prevent further complications. For altitude sickness, symptoms such as headaches, dizziness, or nausea should not be ignored. Resting, hydrating, and descending to a lower altitude if symptoms worsen are critical. Over-the-counter medications for headaches, diarrhea, and other common travel-related ailments should be part of every traveler's first-aid kit. If symptoms persist or worsen, medical help should be sought at a local clinic or hospital.
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