Frequently Asked Questions From International Patients
We are a National Cancer Institute-designated comprehensive cancer center with expertise across all solid and liquid tumors. Our reputation for leading-edge research, groundbreaking treatments, clinical trials and compassionate patient care has made us one of the most highly regarded cancer centers in America.
While we treat all cancers at City of Hope, we have special capabilities in certain areas. We have one of the largest and most successful bone marrow transplant programs in the United States, having done more than 20,000 transplants. City of Hope is the only hospital to have earned the rating “exceeds expectation” by the Center for International Blood and Marrow Transplant Research for 15 consecutive years. City of Hope is one of the largest centers for robotic surgery in the world. Since 2010, our surgeons have performed over 16,000 robot-assisted procedures for prostate, kidney, colon, liver, bladder, lung, gynecologic, oral and other cancers. Using robots as wrists, this minimally invasive technique allows surgeons to access hard-to-reach areas of the body through smaller incisions, resulting in faster recovery times and shorter hospital stays. We are experts in many other diseases and offer multidisciplinary, team-based care for all our patients.
City of Hope is a recognized world leader in cancer research and treatment, offering unmatched expertise to every patient to every patient who enters our doors. As one of the 57 comprehensive cancer centers nationwide by the National Cancer Institute, our facility has consistently been ranked among “America’s Best Hospitals” for cancer care by U.S. News & World Report for over a decade.
At City of Hope, our corridors are lined with world-renowned physicians and scientists specializing in a full spectrum of cancers, notably blood cancers, liver cancer, and head and neck cancers. Our specialized focus enables us to tailor our care to the distinct needs of each patient, fostering better outcomes and more personalized treatment plans.
City of Hope is more than a treatment center; it's a community. Situated in the vibrant heart of Los Angeles, a city celebrated for its rich cultural tapestry, our campus is conveniently located amid a plethora of multicultural amenities. Whether you’re in need of comfort foods that taste like home, specialty services, or leisure activities, everything is within reach. You are also just a short drive away from iconic attractions such as Disneyland, Universal Studios, vibrant shopping districts, and, of course, the abundant California sunshine. This setting not only facilitates easy access to practical necessities but also enriches the healing experience with a variety of cultural and recreational opportunities.
Above all, City of Hope is renowned for its comprehensive and compassionate approach to cancer care, providing not only medical treatment but also robust social and psychological support throughout your entire cancer journey.
Your journey to personalized care begins with completing our New International Patient Form. This important first step provides our team with key information to initiate the intake process and tailor your treatment experience.
Once the form is submitted, you will receive an automated confirmation from our patient intake system. This message will include important instructions to help you prepare for your care journey with City of Hope. We strongly encourage patients or family members to submit the required clinical information by following the step-by-step guidance provided.
After we receive your clinical records, a dedicated member of our International Patient Care team will contact you to guide you through the next steps.
If you prefer to contact our team directly by text, phone, or email, we will respond within two business days.
You can send medical records electronically via email to [email protected].
Please note that all documents must be submitted in English. For your convenience, we have compiled a list of recommended translation services in the United States, which can be accessed here. While AI tools may be used for some translations, they are generally not suitable for medical records due to accuracy concerns. Therefore, we strongly advise against using AI for translating medical documents and recommend using professional translation services instead.
City of Hope currently does not provide medical translation services. Please note that AI translation tools are generally not suitable for medical records due to accuracy concerns. Therefore, we strongly advise against using AI for translating medical documents and recommend using professional translation services instead.
Our international patient coordinators are fluent in multiple languages to better assist you. Additionally, we offer complimentary interpreter services, available either in person or via telephone, for your appointments at City of Hope.
Upon review of your medical records by one of our physicians and after estimating the charges for your recommended treatment, City of Hope will provide a letter confirming your scheduled appointment. This letter will also affirm your acceptance of financial responsibility for the medical services to be provided. You should include this letter with your visa application. For detailed visa requirements, please refer to the U.S. Department of State website [link].
The duration of your stay at City of Hope will vary based on your specific medical condition and the treatment plan. For patients seeking only a second opinion, we typically recommend planning for a week to 10 days to accommodate any potential follow-up tests or treatments that may be necessary following your consultation. For those undergoing planned treatment, it is advisable to arrange accommodations for three to six months to ensure a comprehensive and unhurried treatment process.
City of Hope has partnerships with a variety of local hotels, inns, and rental apartments, many of which offer special rates for our patients. For a list of these accommodations and their contact information, please refer to our hotel list. We recommend securing your accommodations once your appointment is confirmed.
At City of Hope, we are dedicated to providing a comprehensive range of services to support our patients throughout their treatment journey. Please explore our additional resources that may be beneficial for your care and well-being.
Our Patient Financial Services team will provide you with an estimate based on the specific services required for your clinical care. Please note that this estimate is based on the information currently available to us and may vary depending on unforeseen complications or changes to your treatment plan.
City of Hope requires full payment in advance once you are accepted as a patient, prior to the commencement of any services. Currently, we do not offer installment payment options.
Yes, City of Hope provides a 50% discount on hospital charges and a 15% discount on professional fees for all international patients who pay for their care in advance.
Coverage varies depending on your insurance policy. We recommend contacting your insurance provider to confirm whether your services at City of Hope will be covered. Please note that medical services not funded by clinical trial sponsors, such as pharmaceutical and biotech companies, may not be covered by insurance companies or government programs.
Yes, City of Hope accepts international insurance that covers services and treatment at our facility. We encourage you to confirm the details of your policy and coverage directly with your insurance provider.
Please include your international insurance information—such as the front and back of your insurance card, policy details, and coverage summary—when submitting your clinical records.
Unfortunately, City of Hope does not offer a financial assistance program specifically for the care and treatment of international patients.
During our clinical review process, our team will evaluate the patient's medical information. If a clinical trial is identified as a potential treatment option, we will discuss it with you based on your specific condition and provide additional details at that time.
No, clinical trials are considered a form of treatment. Patient Financial Services will provide an estimate based on the specific services your clinical care requires. Please note that this estimate is based on the information currently available and may vary due to unforeseen complications or changes in your treatment plan.
Yes, since 2009, City of Hope has employed SupportScreen, an innovative automated biopsychosocial screening program, to assess patient emotional and social health. SupportScreen is available in English, Spanish, and Traditional Chinese. The responses gathered through this program enhance communication among patients, their families, physicians and multidisciplinary specialists, ultimately aiding in the improvement of care.
For urgent assistance or inquiries, please contact us directly at +1 (833) 330-4673 or via email at [email protected]. Our team is prepared to listen, understand your unique situation and provide the necessary support.
Chat With Our International Patient Services Representative Now
WhatsApp
Follow City of Hope on WeChat
Scan inside the WeChat app