How to Use Medical Services in Japan

Japanese medical services are, of course, available to foreigners.
The services are also renowned for its low cost and high quality.
 
There are differences in the way medical services are used in Japan and other countries.
Therefore, there are some things that foreigners may not understand when using Japanese medical care.
 
This article introduces the basics that foreigners should know when they want to use medical services in Japan and how to use them.

Hospitals and Clinics in Japan 

病院 and クリニック

Medical institutions in Japan are generally divided into "病院" and "クリニック".

病院(Hospital)

A hospital is an institution with more than 20 beds (beds).
 
Among them, we can divide them into types such as general hospitals, national hospitals, and university hospitals.
It is used by people with severe symptoms, those who need immediate medical attention, and those who require highly skilled medical care.

クリニック・診療所(Clinic)

An institution with 19 or fewer beds (beds) is called Examination Office, Clinics or Doctor’s Office.
 
If you are just beginning to feel ill or have a minor injury, go to these medical facilities first.
If further tests are needed, the doctor will ask you to go to the hospital.
At that time, you will be given a piece of paper called a "letter of referral. On that paper, your previous symptoms and treatment will be written.

Subject of medical treatment

The subject to be seen depends on the symptoms of the illness or injury. Here are some examples of when to use this service.

内科（Internal Medicine）

• For general health problems such as a cold.
• When treating diseases of the digestive, respiratory, and other internal organs.
• When you want to get a flu shot, etc.
  
  

皮膚科（Dermatology）

When there are symptoms of skin concerns such as itchy skin, acne that won't go away, etc.

眼科（Ophthalmology）

• When there are symptoms that concern the eyes, such as sore eyes.
• When buying contact lenses, etc.
  
  

産婦人科（Obstetrics and gynecology）

Obstetrics and gynecology are sometimes offered in the same clinic.

• When pregnant (from periodic checkups to delivery).
• When there are problems specific to women, such as menstrual irregularities.
• When treating infertility, etc.
  
  

小児科（Pediatrics）

• When a child becomes ill.
• When a child needs vaccination.

Things to keep in mind when foreigners use medical services

Payment of medical expenses

Foreign nationals staying in Japan for more than three months are required to enroll in the National Health Insurance system.
The amount you pay depends on whether you have insurance.
 
If you are a subscriber: You pay only 30% of the cost, so you can make use of the service for a very low price*.
If you are not enrolled: You must pay the full amount, so you cannot use the service with a discount.
 
*Children under 6 years old and people over 70 years old will have a different burden ratio.
 
For more information on National Health Insurance coverage, please see this article.
🔗 Health Insurance in Japan: What Foreigners Need to Know

Determine which medical institution to go to

Decide which medical facility to use depending on your symptoms and the level of urgency.

When symptoms are not so bad, but you want to see a doctor

Go to a clinic or doctor's office.
If you need to go after office hours, use the night medical service counter.

When symptoms are severe and urgent treatment is needed

Use an emergency hospital.
Emergency hospitals are available 24 hours, 365 days a year.
Go by yourself or call an ambulance (119) if you cannot move.

When symptoms are mild and not enough to require medical attention

You can buy medicines at a nearby drugstore.
There are pharmacists and registered sellers who are knowledgeable about medicines, so tell them about your symptoms and ask them which medicine you should buy.
 
There is also a consultation service if you would like to discuss your treatment.
Find a consultation service in your area. They are available in many different languages.

How to get access to medical services for foreigners

1. Find a medical facility

Find a medical facility that matches your symptoms.

If you have concerns that you do not know how to communicate your symptoms in Japanese, you should choose a medical facility that accepts or offer services for foreigners.
 
You can search for a hospital nearby at the following website.

2. Make a reservation

Some hospitals offer reservations. You can make an appointment by phone or on the Internet for a smooth visit.

3. Prepare your belongings

When going to the hospital, a health insurance card and identification documents such as a passport or residence card are required.

4. Check in at the reception desk and fill out a medical questionnaire

When you arrive at the hospital, show your health insurance card to the receptionist.
At that time, you will be given a medical questionnaire.
On the medical questionnaire, write your name, date of birth, what symptoms you have, and what medications you are currently taking.

5. Receive a medical examination

Receive medical examination and treatment by a doctor.
 
If you have difficulty communicating in Japanese, you can use the "指さしシート" to help you communicate.

 If medication is needed, a prescription is obtained from the doctor.
処方箋(a prescription) is a piece of paper that is given to you when you need a medication and that describes what the medication is.
With this paper, go to the pharmacy.

6. Pay the bill and go to the pharmacy to get your medicine.

After the examination and treatment, pay the medical fee at the reception desk.
 
When you receive a prescription, go to a nearby pharmacy and show them your prescription to get your medicine.
Mostly, medications are paid for at the pharmacy, not at the hospital.

Good health for all, including you

Medical services are available in Japan even for non-Japanese nationals.
However, it is important to know how to use the system in Japan, which is different from your own country, so that you will not have problems when using it.
Knowing them will help you deal with the disease as soon as possible if you do contract it.
 
Finally, good health is of utmost importance.
Please take care of yourself on a daily basis to avoid going to the hospital as much as possible.

FAQ

1. Are medical facilities available 24 hours a day?

Many clinics and hospitals are generally open only during the day.
If it is after hours, use a medical facility that is open at night.
If you need urgent medical attention, call an ambulance.

2. How should I communicate with the doctor?

There will be times when your Japanese is not good enough or you cannot communicate your symptoms clearly.
In such cases, try using the "指差しシート" issued by the Japan Tourism Agency or a translation application.
Some medical facilities can also arrange for English-speaking doctors and interpreters. It is a good idea to check in advance.