Niche medical services becoming popular with high-end consumers

On a Monday afternoon, Wang Xin, a 35-year-old private equity partner in Beijing, enjoys exclusive services of an ophthalmologist at a private hospital. In the meantime, the ophthalmology departments in the city's public hospitals are filled with patients.

Consultation fees at a private hospital in Beijing range from 500 yuan ($71) to 2,000 yuan. Although that is much higher than the cost in public hospitals, Wang said it is worth it.

"Before seeing a doctor in a private hospital, I can make a reservation by phone. I don't need to wait in line. In addition, the service and environment are better. I have a pediatrician whom I usually take my son to. The pediatrician is familiar with my son's physical condition, and apart from face-to-face consultation, I can also ask him questions by phone. It is as if we have our private doctor," she said.