15 Expats Talk about Health Insurance and Healthcare in Japan
Last updated on Mar 08, 2024
Summary: The quality of medical care in Japan is generally considered to be very high, with a strong emphasis on preventative care. Japan has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. In comparison to the US, Japan has a higher life expectancy and lower infant mortality rate. Emergency services in Japan are generally reliable and efficient. Ambulances can be called by dialing 119, and the operator will be able to provide assistance in English. Ambulances are usually equipped with the latest medical technology and staffed with highly trained medical personnel.
How are healthcare services Japan?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Japan, they replied:
"I tell them that everyone is under the same health insurance and not to worry about choosing from medical insurance plans. Also, for those with chronic diseases, I would advise them to check if their medicine and care is available in Japan, as a lot of medicine that is available in America is not available in Japan," remarked one expat in Tokyo.
"Healthcare services in Japan are generally of a high quality and are provided by both public and private institutions. The public healthcare system is funded by taxes and is available to all citizens and foreign residents. It covers a wide range of services, including preventive care, hospitalization, and long-term care. The quality of public healthcare is generally good, with access to modern medical technology and highly trained medical professionals. Foreign residents are eligible to use the public healthcare system, although they may need to pay a portion of the cost. Expats in Japan can use the public healthcare system by registering with their local municipality and obtaining a health insurance card. This card allows them to access public healthcare services at a discounted rate," remarked one expat living in Japan.
"Research clinics and hospitals online that are English-speaking beforehand. Contact clinics to ask if they perform certain procedures. Learn some common words to ask for specific things if you have to go to a Japanese-speaking clinic or hospital. Hospitals will not coddle you - you must advocate for yourself and be firm if you are having certain issues. Otherwise they may rush you out after a quick once-over," said one expat living in Tokyo.
What are medical services in Japan like?
When we asked expats and global nomads about the quality of medical care in Japan, they replied:
"In Japan, medical services are highly advanced and of a very high quality. The country has a comprehensive healthcare system that provides access to a wide range of medical services, including preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. Japan also has a well-developed network of hospitals and clinics, staffed by highly trained and experienced medical professionals. Patients can expect to receive personalized care and attention, and the latest medical technology is often used to ensure the best possible outcomes," said an expat in Japan.
"It is difficult to find English speaking health providers, but they do exist. The healthcare culture is very rushed and you must be clear about what you need, otherwise the doctor isn't going to take the time to figure it out for you," commented one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Japan?
"Healthcare and health insurance in Japan can be expensive, depending on the type of coverage and services needed. Generally, the cost of healthcare in Japan is higher than in many other countries due to the high quality of care and the advanced technology used. Health insurance premiums can also be costly, but the government subsidizes a portion of the cost for those who qualify. Additionally, many employers offer health insurance plans to their employees, which can help to reduce the cost," wrote an expat living in Japan.
"My experience is that the national health insurance is great and easy to enroll in and easy to use. The insurance is reasonably priced and covers 70% of most medical needs. I have not had a problem with the healthcare system yet. I make sure to find an establishment that provides English support and everything is much smoother for me," said an expat in Tokyo.
"I have Social Health Insurance that my job helped set up for me. It's accepted pretty much everywhere as it's a public insurance. I have only needed to do something preventative, though, so I have only paid for medical service in its entirely before," commented one expat living in Tokyo, Japan.
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William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
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What are emergency services like in Japan?
When we asked about emergency services, members in Japan wrote:
"Emergency services are common and can be accessed by calling 119 for a fire or ambulance and 110 for police. I am a 20 minute public transit ride away from several different hospitals, or a 10 minute drive. The best hospitals in the city are The University of Tokyo Hospital and St. Luke's International Hospital. I am unfamiliar with their care as I have not had to visit yet," commented one expat who moved to Tokyo.
"You for an ambulance by dialing 119. Tokyo is a huge city so I cannot give a recommendation on the best hospitals, as there are a lot of hospitals to choose from and they vary in their care and speciality. I would advise someone to find a hospital that provides English support if they are not comfortable communicating solely in Japanese," said one expat.
"Emergency services in Japan are highly efficient and reliable. In the event of an emergency, the best way to call for an ambulance is to dial the emergency number 119. This number is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week and is free of charge. When calling, it is important to provide the operator with as much information as possible, such as the exact location of the emergency, the type of emergency, and any other relevant information. The operator will then dispatch an ambulance to the scene as quickly as possible," remarked one expat in Japan.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
William Russell's private medical insurance will cover you and your family wherever you may be. Whether you need primary care or complex surgery, you'll have access to the best hospitals & doctors available. Unlike some insurers, we also include medical evacuation and mental health cover in our plans (except SilverLite). Get a quote from our partner, William Russell.
Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
"Tokyo is widely regarded as having the best selection of medical specialists in Japan, with many of the country's top hospitals and clinics located in the city. Other major cities such as Osaka, Kyoto, and Yokohama also have a wide range of medical specialists available. In addition, many smaller cities and rural areas throughout Japan have excellent medical facilities and specialists, making it possible to find quality care no matter where you are in the country," said one expat.
"Since Tokyo is such a big city, I would say that people rarely have to leave Tokyo for speciality service or care. You may be moved within Tokyo, but I would be surprised is you were moved out of Tokyo," remarked one expat in Tokyo.
Are common prescription medications available in Japan?
"There are pharmacies in every neighborhood and they are easily accessible and reasonably priced. However, being in Japan, some medications may not be available or provided. Therefore, check which medications are available before moving to Japan," said an expat in Tokyo.
"Yes, common prescription medications are available in Japan. Many of the same medications that are available in other countries are also available in Japan, although they may have different brand names. In addition, some medications that are not available in other countries may be available in Japan. In order to obtain a prescription medication in Japan, a patient must visit a doctor and receive a prescription. The prescription can then be filled at a pharmacy," commented one expat living in Japan.
Do you have anything more to add about local medical facilities in Japan?
"There is a hospital about 15 minutes from my home. Hospitals are everywhere and are accessible. Every hospital I have been to has been of good quality and if it is public or private varies by case," said one expat.
"Medical facilities and medical care in Japan are of a very high quality. The country has a well-developed healthcare system, with a wide range of medical services available. Doctors and nurses are highly trained and experienced, and the latest medical technology is widely used. Japan also has a strong emphasis on preventive medicine, with regular health check-ups and screenings available to the public. In addition, the cost of medical care in Japan is generally lower than in many other developed countries," remarked one expat in Japan.
As a foreigner living in Japan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
"There is a national health insurance that everyone (expats and Japanese people) is enrolled in. Its cost is based off of your previous year’s income. It covers 70% of most medical costs, but preventative care is not covered (flu shots, checkups, etc.). There are public and private hospitals available," said an expat in Tokyo.
What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
We asked expats in Japan if they have access to public healthcare in Japan. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"Tokyo has managed it very well, and during this outbreak, the standard of medical care there has been superb," said an expat in Tokyo.
"My experiences with the local healthcare system in Japan during the pandemic have been generally positive. The healthcare system has been very responsive to the pandemic, with the government providing clear guidance on how to prevent the spread of the virus and how to seek medical attention if needed. The healthcare system has also been very efficient in providing testing and treatment for those who need it. In addition, the healthcare system has been very supportive of those who are struggling financially due to the pandemic, providing financial assistance and other forms of support. Overall, I have been very impressed with the way the healthcare system in Japan has responded to the pandemic," commented one expat living in Japan.
What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Japan?
We asked expat moms who gave birth in Japan about their experiences and advice they have for other moms to be. They said:
"It is important to research the healthcare system in Japan before having a baby, as it may be different from what you are used to. Make sure to find a doctor or midwife who speaks your language and is familiar with the healthcare system in Japan. Additionally, it is important to familiarize yourself with the maternity leave policies in Japan, as they may be different from what you are used to. It is also important to research the different types of childcare available in Japan, as this will help you decide which option is best for you and your family. Finally, it is important to build a support network of other expats who have had babies in Japan, as they can provide invaluable advice and support," explained one expat living in Japan.
Are healthcare services good in Japan?
We asked people if they have access to good medical care in Japan. They wrote:
"Healthcare services in Japan are highly regarded and are among the best in the world. The Japanese healthcare system is based on universal health insurance, which covers all citizens and residents. The system is funded by a combination of employee and employer contributions, as well as government subsidies. Healthcare services in Japan are comprehensive and include preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. The country also has a strong emphasis on preventive care, with regular check-ups and screenings for various conditions. In addition, Japan has a well-developed network of hospitals and clinics, providing access to quality care for all citizens," said one person in Japan.
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC joined Expat Exchange in 2000 and serves as one of its Co-Presidents. He is also one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.
Additional Information:
- Japan Guide
- Healthcare & Health Insurance in Japan
- Members Talk about Healthcare & Health Insurance in Japan
- Best Places to Live in Japan
- Guide to Real Estate in Japan
- Pros & Cons of Living in Japan
- Cost of Living in Japan
- Homeschooling in Japan
- How to Enroll Your Children in School in Japan
- Educational System in Japan
- 10 Things to Know Before Moving to Japan
- 2024 Guide to Living in Japan
- Pros and Cons of Living in Japan 2024
- 2024 Guide to Moving to Japan