Frequently Asked Questions

Cancer and Hope is a cancer care coordination service that connects Filipino patients with experienced Chinese oncologists. We are not a hospital or medical provider — we are a bridge between patients and specialists. Our services include patient education, facilitating consultations (in the Philippines or via video call), coordinating medical travel logistics to China, and providing ongoing support throughout the patient's journey.

Patient registration and initial coordination are free. If you choose to pursue treatment in China, there may be fees for specific third-party services (such as translation, visa assistance, or accommodation booking). Any fees are always communicated to you in writing before you are asked to pay anything. We are fully transparent about our cost structure.

No. Cancer and Hope is a coordination and education service. We do not diagnose, treat, or prescribe. All medical advice and treatment decisions are made by the licensed oncologists and hospitals we connect you with. We serve as a facilitator and support system to help you navigate the system.

Any Filipino patient with a cancer diagnosis — or a family member acting on behalf of a patient — may register. We accept patients of all cancer types and at all stages of diagnosis. It's okay if you don't have a formal diagnosis yet; you can still register and we can help guide you toward the appropriate next steps.

Yes. Many patients come to us seeking a second opinion, exploring additional treatment options after a recurrence, or looking for advanced therapies not yet available in the Philippines. Your treatment history is valuable information that helps our specialists understand your case fully.

Yes. We understand that patients are often too unwell or distressed to handle administrative matters themselves. Family members or caregivers are welcome to register on behalf of a patient. Please note in the form that you are registering as a family representative.

Consultations happen in two ways: (1) In-person visits to the Philippines — Chinese oncologists visit periodically and see patients face-to-face; (2) Video consultations — you can speak with a specialist remotely from the Philippines. In both cases, you will discuss your diagnosis, medical history, and questions, and the doctor will provide recommendations.

The more information you can provide, the more useful the consultation will be. Helpful documents include: pathology or biopsy reports, CT/MRI/PET scan images (on CD or digital copy), blood test results, surgical notes (if you had surgery), and a list of your current medications. Don't worry if you don't have all of these — the doctor can still provide guidance with partial information.

Many of our partner doctors speak English. For those who don't, a medical interpreter (English/Filipino ↔ Mandarin) is provided for all consultations. You will always have clear communication with your specialist.

We partner only with accredited, internationally recognised hospitals. China's top cancer centres hold national accreditation and many have international accreditation or research partnerships with global institutions. Their oncologists are highly trained and experienced. Like any medical treatment, there are risks — which your doctor will discuss with you fully before you make any decisions.

Costs vary widely depending on the type of cancer, stage, and treatment required. As a rough guide, treatment in China is generally 40–70% less expensive than in the USA or Western Europe. Before committing to anything, our coordinators will provide you with a detailed estimated cost breakdown specific to your case. There is no cost to ask or to explore your options.

Yes. Filipino citizens require a visa to enter China. For medical purposes, you will apply for a Medical (M) Visa. The hospital provides an invitation letter to support your visa application. Our coordinators will guide you through this process step by step and help prepare the necessary documents.

Yes, and we strongly encourage it. A family member or close friend can provide crucial emotional support during treatment. Companion visas can also be arranged, and most hospitals have accommodation options nearby for accompanying family members.

Your Chinese oncologist will provide a detailed treatment summary and follow-up care plan for you to share with your local doctor in the Philippines. Cancer and Hope facilitates continued remote communication with your Chinese specialist as needed. We remain available to support you throughout your recovery.