When you suddenly fall ill or get injured in Japan, figuring out which hospital to visit can be confusing. This guide explains Japan’s medical system and how to choose the right department for your symptoms. It also provides helpful tips for foreigners navigating healthcare in Japan.
Japan’s Healthcare System
Japan’s healthcare system is supported by public insurance programs, such as National Health Insurance or Employee Health Insurance, which usually cover 70% of medical costs. Foreign residents enrolled in these programs can also receive the same benefits as Japanese citizens. Be sure to present your insurance card when visiting a medical facility, as those without insurance must pay the full cost of treatment.
Medical facilities in Japan generally fall into two categories: clinics and hospitals. Clinics are ideal for common health issues like colds or minor injuries, while hospitals are better equipped for advanced testing, surgeries, or inpatient care.
Unlike in many countries with GP (General Practitioner) systems, Japan allows patients to directly visit a specialist department based on their symptoms. This system is particularly helpful if you already have an idea of the issue and want quick access to a specialist.
Support for foreign patients is steadily improving. In major cities, more hospitals and clinics offer multilingual services, and many municipalities provide interpreter services to assist non-Japanese speakers.
Right Department for Your Symptoms
| Symptoms | Department (Japanese) | Department (English) |
|---|---|---|
| Fever, cough, headache, stomach ache | 内科 (ないか, Naika) | Internal Medicine |
| Fractures, injuries | 外科 (げか, Geka) | Surgery |
| Illness or injuries in children (under 15) | 小児科 (しょうにか, Shounika) | Paediatrics |
| Rashes, allergies, skin issues | 皮膚科 (ひふか, Hifuka) | Dermatology |
| Nasal congestion, sore throat, ear problems | 耳鼻咽喉科 (じびいんこうか, Jibiinkouka) | ENT (Ear, Nose, and Throat) |
| Eye irritation, vision problems, eye injuries | 眼科 (がんか, Ganka) | Ophthalmology |
| Tooth pain, gum inflammation | 歯科 (しか, Shika) | Dentistry |
| Irregular periods, pregnancy concerns | 婦人科 (ふじんか, Fujinka) | Gynaecology |
| Stress, insomnia, depression | 精神科・心療内科 (せいしんか・しんりょうないか, Seishinka / Shinryou Naika) | Psychiatry/Psychosomatic Medicine |
In the case of Sickness and Injuries
Accessing healthcare in your native language is definitely a comforting experience. In major cities like Tokyo, more hospitals and clinics now offer services in English and other languages. It’s highly recommended to choose these facilities as your first option when seeking medical care.
In smaller cities, however, finding English-speaking staff might be more difficult. To prepare for such situations, learning a few health-related Japanese phrases and terms can make a big difference.
In emergencies, dial 119 to call an ambulance. Operators are available in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Spanish. For detailed instructions, refer to the “Guide for ambulance services” published by Japan’s Fire and Disaster Management Agency.
In Japan, where the GP system is uncommon, patients must choose the appropriate department based on their symptoms. If you’re unsure or feel uneasy about language barriers, opt for hospitals that offer multilingual support or use interpreter services. Let this guide help you confidently access the care you need.
