Guidelines for Hospitalization

If you are a foreigner planning to visit or live in Japan and have an illness that requires hospitalization, here are some guidelines that may be helpful to you:

1. Health Insurance: Make sure you have valid health insurance coverage. In Japan, everyone is required to have health insurance, and foreigners are no exception. If you are employed, your employer will enroll you in the National Health Insurance (NHI) program. If you are a student or self-employed, you may need to enroll in the NHI program or have other forms of insurance.

2. Medical Assistance: If you need medical assistance, you can call the Japan Medical Support Service (JMSS) hotline, which is available 24/7 and provides support in multiple languages. The hotline can help you find a hospital or clinic, make appointments, and provide translation services.

3. Hospitalization: If you need to be hospitalized, you will need to present your health insurance card at the hospital. Hospitals in Japan are generally of high quality and well-equipped, but they can also be expensive. If you are admitted to the hospital, you will need to pay a portion of the cost out of pocket, which is usually around 30% of the total cost.

4. Language Barrier: Many hospitals in Japan do not have English-speaking staff, so it may be helpful to bring a Japanese-speaking friend or hire a professional translator to assist you. Some hospitals also offer translation services or have staff who speak multiple languages.

5. Medications: If you need medications during your hospitalization, the hospital will provide them to you. However, be aware that the types of medications available in Japan may be different from what you are used to in your home country. It may be helpful to bring a list of your current medications with you.

6. Aftercare: After you are discharged from the hospital, you may need to continue receiving medical care or rehabilitation services. Be sure to follow your doctor's instructions and keep track of your medical records. If you need additional support or assistance, you can contact the JMSS hotline for help.

Overall, if you are a foreigner seeking hospitalization in Japan, it is important to have valid health insurance coverage, be prepared for potential language barriers, and seek assistance from resources such as the JMSS hotline if needed.