A Guide to Visiting the Doctor in Japan

Understanding the Japanese Healthcare System

The Japanese healthcare system is distinguished by its universal coverage and efficiency. All residents, including foreigners staying for more than three months, are required to enroll in the national health insurance program. This system generally covers 70% of medical expenses, with the remaining 30% paid by the patient.

Hospitals play a central role in the healthcare system, even for routine visits.

Japan has approximately 178,000 medical facilities, including 8,500 hospitals and more than 100,000 clinics, providing widespread access to care throughout the country. However, it is important to note that Japan’s physician density (184.4 physicians per 100,000 inhabitants) is lower than that of many Western countries.

Finding a Medical Facility That Meets Your Needs

To find a medical facility in Japan, you have several options:

• Local clinics: For minor health issues, neighborhood clinics are often the first choice. They are generally well-equipped and can treat a variety of conditions.
• Hospitals: For more specialized care or in an emergency, hospitals are the preferred option. Some large hospitals may require a referral from a doctor for an appointment.
• Medical Information Service: The official website of the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) provides detailed information on medical facilities, including those offering services in foreign languages.

How a Medical Consultation Works in Japan

A medical appointment in Japan generally proceeds as follows:

1. Arrival and Registration: Upon arrival, go to the reception desk (受付 uketsuke), where you will be asked to fill out an information form. If this is your first visit, a medical record will be created for you.
2. Waiting: The system often operates on a first-come, first-served basis. Wait times can be long, especially in large hospitals.
3. Consultation: The doctor will see you to discuss your symptoms. Physical exams are generally less thorough than in the West, reflecting a different approach to modesty.
4. Diagnosis and Prescription: After the exam, the doctor will explain the diagnosis and prescribe treatment if necessary.
5. Payment: You’ll pay the fees at the cashier’s office (会計 kaikei) before leaving. Be sure to have cash, as not all facilities accept credit cards.

Note that Japanese doctors tend to be less explanatory than their Western counterparts. Don’t hesitate to ask questions if you need clarification.

Communicating with Medical Staff: Language Barriers and Useful Vocabulary

The language barrier can be a major challenge during a medical visit in Japan. Here are some strategies to facilitate communication:

• Preparation: Before your visit, prepare a list of medical terms in Japanese that describe your symptoms and medical history.
• Translation apps: Apps like Google Translate can be useful for quick translations.
• Interpretation services: Some hospitals offer telephone interpretation services. Check in advance.
• Accompaniment: If possible, have someone who speaks Japanese accompany you.

Here are some essential medical terms in Japanese:

• Hospital: 病院 (byōin)
• Doctor: 医者 (isha)
• Headache: 頭痛 (zutsū)
• Fever: 熱 (netsu)
• Allergy: アレルギー (arerugī)
• Medicine: 薬 (kusuri)

Obtaining and Using a Prescription in Japan

The process of obtaining and using a prescription in Japan differs slightly from Western practices:

Please note that some medications commonly available in your home country may be prohibited or require special authorization in Japan. Always check the regulations before bringing personal medications with you.

Medical Costs and Reimbursement in Japan

The cost of medical care in Japan can vary considerably depending on the type of treatment and the facility:

• Basic consultation: Approximately 5,000 to 10,000 yen (40 to 80 euros) for a general practitioner.
• Specialist consultation: 10,000 to 20,000 yen (80 to 160 euros).
• Hospitalization: Costs can quickly rise to several hundred thousand yen per day.

For those covered by Japanese health insurance, 70% of the costs are generally covered. The remaining 30% is the patient’s responsibility. For tourists and short-term visitors, it is strongly recommended to purchase travel insurance covering medical expenses before departure.

To obtain a reimbursement:

1. Keep all receipts and medical documents.
2. For Japanese insurance plans, reimbursement is usually automatic.
3. For foreign insurance, you will likely need to pay the costs upfront and then request a reimbursement by providing all supporting documentation.

What to Do in Case of a Medical Emergency in Japan?

In the event of a medical emergency in Japan, follow these steps:

1. Call emergency services: Dial 119 for an ambulance. This service is free, but be sure to use it only in the event of a genuine emergency.
2. Communicate clearly: Even if you don’t speak Japanese, say “English please” or “French please” to request an interpreter.
3. Emergency hospitals: Some hospitals offer 24-hour emergency services. Find out in advance which hospitals are near where you’re staying.
4. Medical information centers: If in doubt, you can contact services such as the AMDA International Medical Information Center for advice in English.

It’s crucial to keep your insurance contact information and important medical details (allergies, chronic conditions, etc.) in case of an emergency.

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