×
Interested in our Partner Program for businesses or our Local Guide Program for experienced expats and digital nomads? Click here to learn more.
Expat Exchange - Health Care in Tokyo 2024
Expat Exchange
Free MembershipSign In
Tokyo


Health Care in Tokyo

By Betsy Burlingame

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Summary: Explore healthcare options for expatriates and digital nomads in Tokyo: uncover top-rated providers, hospitals, and medical facilities to meet your needs while living abroad in Tokyo.

Tokyo has a comprehensive healthcare system that includes both public and private hospitals and clinics. The public healthcare system is called the National Health Insurance (NHI) and is used by both Japanese citizens and foreigners.

Japan's Healthcare System

The NHI is a universal healthcare system that covers most medical expenses. It is used by most Japanese citizens and is also available to foreigners. People generally recommend using public hospitals in Tokyo for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Public hospitals in Tokyo are typically well-equipped and staffed with experienced medical professionals. Foreigners, including expats and digital nomads, are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Japan. However, many expats prefer to use private hospitals for serious medical emergencies and major surgery. Private hospitals in Tokyo are typically more expensive than public hospitals, but they offer more personalized care and a wider range of services.

Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Tokyo

  • Tokyo Medical and Surgical Clinic: This is a private clinic located in the heart of Tokyo. It specializes in general medical care and offers a wide range of services, including preventive care, diagnostics, and treatments.
  • Tokyo International Medical Center: This is a private hospital located in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo. It specializes in providing medical care to expats and digital nomads, and offers a wide range of services, including preventive care, diagnostics, and treatments.
  • Tokyo Medical University Hospital: This is a public hospital located in the Shinjuku district of Tokyo. It specializes in providing medical care to both Japanese citizens and foreigners, and offers a wide range of services, including preventive care, diagnostics, and treatments.

Emergency Services in Tokyo

Tokyo has a comprehensive emergency medical services system. Ambulance services are available and can be called by dialing 119. Ambulances typically arrive quickly, but there can be delays depending on the severity of the emergency.

Health Insurance Companies in Tokyo

The most popular private health insurers in Tokyo are Japan Health Insurance, Japan Medical Insurance, and Japan Life Insurance. These companies offer a range of health insurance plans, including basic plans, comprehensive plans, and specialized plans. Expats and digital nomads typically use these companies or specialized expat health insurance providers.

About the Author

Betsy Burlingame Betsy Burlingame is the Founder and President of Expat Exchange and is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University with a BA in International Business and German.

Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.


Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Tokyo

William Russell
William Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

William RussellWilliam Russell

Get a quote for international health insurance from our partner, William Russell.
Get Quote

Contribute to Japan Network Contribute
Help others in Japan by answering questions about the challenges and adventures of living in Japan.

Cigna Global Health
Cigna Global Health

Copyright 1997-2024 Burlingame Interactive, Inc.

Privacy Policy Legal Partners & Local Guides