Becoming an International Patient

The Global Services Division features a dedicated team experienced in providing world-class services to international patients and families seeking medical care in the United States. Our team understands the challenges of traveling abroad for medical care, and we work diligently to coordinate the clinical and logistical aspects of the visit, making sure that each child’s unique cultural, linguistic and religious needs are being met.

Our international patients have 24/7 access to a robust team of doctors, nurses, coordinators and interpreters, ensuring that our patients get timely appointments, easy access to information, and convenient communication with health care providers.

Contact Global Services

To get in touch with the Global Services team, please call +1-202-476-5779 or email.

Information Email us

Step 1: Getting Started

Submit your child’s demographic and clinical information on the International Patient Access Form or contact us at [email protected] or via phone by calling:

United States: (202) 476-5779
UAE toll-free number: 800-011-0200
Peru toll-free: 0800-56095
Saudi Arabia: 800-8-110573

Have the following information available when contacting us:

Your child’s demographic information
Medical records in English, which could include pathology, laboratory, surgery and diagnostic imaging reports
- How to upload medical records - English (PDF)
  - How to upload medical records - Arabic (PDF)
  - How to upload medical records - Chinese (PDF)
  - How to upload medical records - Portuguese (PDF)
  - How to upload medical records - Spanish (PDF)
- Upload medical records
Financial coverage information

Our team handles the coordination for your child’s care and connects you with our renowned clinicians, who review the medical information provided and propose a plan of care for your child’s treatment at Children’s National. This process can take up to 7 business days, and we will keep you informed and updated throughout.

Step 2: Financial Services

Our Patient Financial Services team supports our patients and families by creating estimates, verifying international insurance benefits and connecting directly with sponsors for coverage eligibility.

International Self-Pay Patients

Our Patient Financial Coordinators generate a cost estimate based on the proposed plan of care provided by our physicians. Our cost estimates are not the final bill and may not include additional services recommended during the in-person evaluation or subsequent treatment. Following the initial examination and based on the physician's recommendations, the cost estimate may be revised.

Upon confirmation to pursue treatment with Children’s National, a full deposit of the total cost estimate is required prior to scheduling the appointments.

Children’s National is sensitive to the needs of all children and shares an equitable compassion for their continued well-being. We receive requests to offer free medical care to children from around the world, and unfortunately, we are not able to extend financial assistance to patients coming from overseas.

International Insurance Patients

The Global Services Division has agreements with several international insurance carriers, and we can verify if your local insurance would have access to Children’s National Hospital. When sending us medical records, please include a copy of the front and back of your insurance card and our finance team will contact the insurance company to verify benefits and coverage eligibility.

Government-Sponsored Patients

Our Finance team will connect directly with your government sponsor regarding coverage and approvals for services.

Step 3: Coordinating Care

After the financial requirements for treatment have been met, our team schedules your child’s appointments based on the proposed plan of care, and you will receive an appointment confirmation letter that can be used to apply for a visa. We recommend booking your flights and accommodations after your visa is secured, and plan to arrive at least one to two days prior to your initial appointment.

One week prior to your arrival, we will schedule an intake call to review your child’s medical history and your itinerary, and to provide an overview of Children’s National Hospital.

International Remote Second Opinion Program

Our Remote Second Opinion Program allows you to access Children’s National experts even if you can’t travel to Children’s National. Our renowned physicians review your child's medical information and compile a comprehensive report to inform your family's decisions for follow-up care.

Learn about the program

Online Appointment Request Form

The experts at Children’s National Hospital give children and their families the best possible care with innovative medical techniques and family-centered healthcare services.

Submit the new patient form

The Patient Journey

Learn about the excellent care children and families from outside of the United States will receive from our Global Services team when they seek care from our specialists. You’ll also get a look at our Children’s Research Institute, where efforts to find innovative solutions to childhood diseases are among the best in health care in the United States and around the world.