Healthcare in Japan

Healthcare in Japan is both accessible and compulsory for expats who have a visa for over 90 days. Expats will likely fall under one of two public schemes – one for salaried workers and one for the remaining population. In addition, expats can also obtain private health insurance in Japan.

Health insurance in Japan

Most expats will fall under one of two major healthcare schemes in Japan – Employees' Health Insurance (Shakai Kenko Hoken) or National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken). In these two schemes, healthcare expenses are covered by up to 70 percent. There is also the Advanced Elderly Medical Service System (Choju Iryo Seido) for those over the age of 75, which funds up to 90 percent of medical expenses.

Under the Employees' Health Insurance programme, it's compulsory for companies to provide their employees and their families with medical insurance and healthcare. The National Health Insurance scheme covers individuals other than salaried employees and workers, such as those who are self-employed or unemployed.

An Individual Number Card must be presented to access healthcare services. It functions as a health insurance certificate. You can apply for this card online, in person, or by mail.

Some expats opt for additional private health insurance to fund the portion of healthcare fees not covered by the public system. This isn't mandatory but can be helpful for keeping costs down.

Useful links

• Individual Number Card
• Japan Health Policy

Public healthcare in Japan

Japan's public healthcare system is renowned for its high quality and is accessible to all residents, including expats. It is an integral part of the nation's commitment to ensuring a solid standard of practice in healthcare. Many doctors in the public healthcare system have studied overseas, bringing a wealth of international knowledge and experience to their practice.

That said, not all doctors in the public system are proficient in English. In urban areas like Tokyo, medical services often have provisions to direct expats to English-speaking doctors. In other cities, translation services may be offered. Online resources, such as Japan Healthcare Info, provide useful info for expats looking for English-speaking doctors.

Useful links

• Japan Healthcare Info

Private healthcare in Japan

Private healthcare in Japan is another option for expats, offering benefits like shorter waiting times, a wider choice of doctors, and additional amenities. That said, these benefits come at a higher cost.

The language proficiency of doctors in the private sector can also vary, but English-speaking doctors are generally more common, particularly in private hospitals catering to the international community. The patient-doctor dynamic may also be more familiar to Western expats, with more of an emphasis on shared decision-making.

When choosing a healthcare provider, whether public or private, expats should consider factors such as cultural understanding and language proficiency for clear and effective communication.

Vaccinations for Japan

While Japan doesn't require any specific vaccinations for entry, the following are generally recommended for travel to Japan, especially for long-term stays:

• Measles, Mumps, Rubella (MMR)
• Diphtheria-Tetanus-Pertussis
• Varicella (Chickenpox)
• Polio
• Influenza
• Hepatitis A and B
• Japanese Encephalitis (if planning to stay in rural areas for an extended period)

Before travelling, expats should consult with their healthcare provider to discuss necessary vaccinations based on their specific health conditions and itinerary.

Medicines and pharmacies in Japan

Pharmacies (yakkyoku) can readily be found on all major streets or in shopping malls in Japanese cities. They tend to be well-stocked and are open from 9am to 6pm. Pharmacists are usually highly knowledgeable. However, not all pharmacists are proficient in English, so expats may struggle if they have lots of questions. 

Expats moving to Japan should note the difference between pharmacies and drugstores (doraggu sutoa). Drugstores sell a variety of products, including over-the-counter medication, cosmetics, snacks, and household goods, while pharmacies sell medication only. Drugstores also stay open longer than pharmacies, closing at 8pm, and some are open 24 hours a day.

Health hazards in Japan

While Japan has no major endemic diseases to worry about, expats should be aware that the country is in a region known for natural disasters such as earthquakes and tsunamis. These can indirectly impact health and safety, particularly in the immediate aftermath, through disruptions in infrastructure, access to healthcare and other essential services.

We recommend that you familiarise yourself with emergency preparedness measures for such events, including securing an emergency kit and understanding evacuation protocols. 

Air pollution is arguably the region's most significant endemic health issue. This is particularly bad during the winter months. If you have respiratory issues or asthma, you may find that your symptoms are worse in Japan.

Emergency services in Japan

In the event of a medical emergency in Japan, expats can call an ambulance on 119.

Outside Tokyo, the operator answering an emergency call may not have a good command of English, so it's a good idea to learn a few basic Japanese phrases to use in an emergency. 

The response times of the Japanese ambulance services are fairly good, especially in urban locations.