International patient programme · China
Advanced DBS care for drug addiction, in China.
A clinically guided pathway for eligible international patients with severe, treatment-refractory drug addiction — from confidential assessment to coordinated care and follow-up.
Nature Partner Content · 2026
Exploring deep brain stimulation for addiction
A Nature partner-content article explores ongoing research into DBS for severe, treatment-resistant addiction — and why careful assessment, long-term monitoring and responsible use matter.
Self-check · about 3 minutes
Understand the signals. Choose your next step.
This brief self-check helps you reflect on substance-use patterns and their impact on daily life. It is educational only and does not provide a diagnosis or medical advice.
Clinical outcomes
A structured dual-target DBS care pathway for opioid-use disorder.
Opioid-use disorder is a complex chronic brain disorder, often shaped by withdrawal, persistent craving and a high risk of relapse.
The described pathway combines detoxification, surgery, individualized programming and rehabilitation management, with specialist assessment and long-term follow-up throughout.
Read morePrivate self-check
Start with a private self-check.
This brief questionnaire helps you reflect on substance-use related concerns and decide whether you would like further support.
This self-check does not provide a diagnosis or medical advice.
Designed for international patients
One coordinated pathway, from first conversation to return home.
We help you understand the process before you travel. Clinical eligibility is always decided by the treating medical team.
Confidential enquiry
Share your history and goals securely. Our team explains next steps and required records.
Clinical pre-review
Relevant information is reviewed for possible referral to the treating team.
Travel coordination
Medical visa support, interpretation, accommodation and airport or local transport coordination.
Care & follow-up
Hospital-based care, programming support and a follow-up plan for your return home.
For patients & families
Clear information at every stage.
Explore the essentials before you decide whether to request an assessment.
01 / UNDERSTANDING DBS
What DBS is — and what it is not
Learn how the therapy is approached in addiction care, and why a clinical assessment is essential.
02 / PREPARING TO TRAVEL
Practical guidance for international care
Support with medical travel planning, communication and what to prepare before visiting China.
03 / SUPPORT FOR FAMILIES
Every recovery journey needs a team
Resources for families seeking compassionate, informed support for a loved one.
Partner institutions
Clinical collaboration across leading institutions.
We value clinical and academic exchange with institutions helping advance responsible, patient-centred care.

Ganjiang New Area Hospital of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University
A tertiary public hospital in the Ganjiang New Area, comprehensively operated and managed by the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University.

Second Affiliated Hospital of Air Force Medical University (Tangdu Hospital)
A major teaching hospital of Air Force Medical University, integrating clinical care, medical education and research.

West China Hospital, Sichuan University
A leading centre for complex and critical care, medical education and scientific innovation in western China.

The Second People's Hospital of Hunan Province (Hunan Brain Hospital)
A provincial public hospital known as Hunan Brain Hospital, with multidisciplinary mental health and neuroscience services.

The Second Xiangya Hospital of Central South University
A teaching hospital of Central South University with established strengths in clinical medicine, education and research.

Shanghai Mental Health Center
A specialised mental health institution providing clinical care, education and research across mental health services.
Care is supported by connection.
Thoughtful coordination helps patients and families arrive prepared, communicate clearly and focus on the clinical conversation that matters most.
Latest clinical news
June 2026 · Jiangxi, China
World's first dual-target DBS surgery for drug addiction completed in Jiangxi.
The procedure was completed at the Ganjiang New Area Hospital of the First Affiliated Hospital of Nanchang University. Read the official report for the clinical context and details.
Start with a private conversation
Find out whether a specialist assessment may be appropriate.
Contact our international patient coordination team to discuss clinical records, travel support and the next step in your care journey.
Contact the international patient teamThis website provides general information only and does not replace professional medical advice. Treatment suitability is determined by the responsible clinical team after a comprehensive assessment.
DBS & addiction: clinical reading
Explore practical, non-commercial education on recovery, clinical assessment and ongoing care.
Breaking misconceptions about addiction
Understand why addiction is a chronic health condition requiring support.
Read more →Read articleUnderstanding DBS: principles and research
Learn about deep brain stimulation and key questions for discussion.
Read more →Read articleWho may be considered for DBS care?
Learn about specialist assessment, suitability and timing.
Read more →ProfessionalsProfessional & research resources
Explore clinical evidence, research developments and professional reading.
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