Practical planning guide
Thyroid Checks in China: Ultrasound or Blood Tests?
By MyChinaCheckup coordination team · Published
A package that mentions “thyroid” does not necessarily include both ultrasound and blood tests. Ultrasound describes an imaging examination; blood-test rows such as TSH, T3 and T4 name different measurements. Compare the precise rows with the clinician’s request rather than assuming a complete thyroid panel.
Separate structure from function-related tests
Ultrasound produces images of the thyroid’s structure. Thyroid blood tests measure substances such as TSH and thyroid hormones that help clinicians assess function. These examinations provide different information; one label does not establish that the other is included. The NIDDK overview of thyroid tests describes both categories.
A package comparison cannot determine whether you need either test. If you have an existing clinical question, report or test request, ask a clinician to assess the appropriate scope. Do not add every thyroid-related examination solely because it appears on another package list.
Preserve the exact blood-test names
| Wording | What to clarify |
|---|---|
| TSH | Whether this specific measurement is listed or requested. |
| T3 / T4 | Whether the list and laboratory specify total or free measurements. |
| FT3 / FT4 | Do not silently substitute these for T3 / T4. |
| Thyroid antibodies | Check each separately named antibody; a general thyroid label does not include all of them. |
| Ultrasound | Check the exact examination row and what the provider will report. |
If a translated label is ambiguous, ask for the original test name or laboratory code to be checked. Preserve the wording of an overseas doctor’s request until the receiving provider confirms what can be accepted.
Read the Sanya example without inventing extra tests
In the current Sanya lists, Men’s and Women’s Advanced 02 name thyroid B-mode ultrasound. Men’s and Women’s Selected 03 name thyroid colour Doppler ultrasound plus TSH, T3 and T4. The Basic 01 lists do not name these thyroid rows.
The Selected blood-test wording is T3 and T4; it must not be rewritten as FT3 and FT4. Thyroid antibody tests are not established by those rows. The imaging and laboratory differences are examples of scope, not a recommendation to choose the larger list. Open all six Sanya package lists.
Turn an outside request into a checked item list
- Send the exact test wording rather than “full thyroid check”.
- Match each requested measurement to a listed row or a proposed addition.
- Ask the receiving provider to clarify method or naming differences.
- Confirm preparation, price and reporting for any accepted addition.
- Ask who will interpret the results and whether a separate consultation is needed.
Keep the original report’s units and reference ranges with its translation. A coordination team can help establish which rows were accepted, but clinical interpretation belongs to the clinician.
Confirmed package services and timing
Your selected, confirmed check-up package price includes all listed examinations and consumables, personalised VIP coordination, dedicated English-speaking accompaniment throughout the check-up, and the hospital-issued Chinese report with a full English translation. Extras need a separately disclosed price and your acceptance.
Routine packages usually take 2–3.5 hours on site; additions or separate appointments can take longer. Both reports are delivered within 3–5 working days after all examinations listed in the confirmed package are completed. This is not a deadline for a separate specialist diagnostic or treatment pathway.
For ordinary check-ups, payment can be made after arriving in China, but must be complete before the first examination. Any hospital-required advance payment is explained before you confirm the booking. Booking steps · Cancellation and refund terms.
Sources and service context
- Sanya hospital: six current package lists and original-list PDFs. Package scope checked against the supplied source lists and current published lists on 10 October 2026.
- NIDDK: Thyroid Tests. General clinical background; it does not establish a local booking or package inclusion.
Discuss your own plan
Explain the appointment or examination scope you want checked. An enquiry is free and does not reserve an appointment. The receiving provider confirms suitability, availability and the written plan.