[3] Born in Baoshan, Jiangsu Province (now in Shanghai), Qian entered Tongji University in 1926 to study German language and art.

After formation of PR China, Qian was sent to Soviet Union in 1951 and studied at USSR First Medical College.

In 1955, he attained the rank of major general of the People's Liberation Army of China.

After returning to China in 1956, he was appointed as vice director of health department of PLA General Logistics Department, and the president of PLA Academy of Military Medical Sciences.

[4]: 304  Mao Zedong criticized Qian for this, arguing that an urban hospital-focused health care model failed to treat peasants and focused on cure rather than preventative medicine.