Japan’s Healthcare: How It Saved My Life and How It Can Help You
By Cheenee Villanueva
A few months ago, Japan’s emergency response team saved my life with their quick response. Before that, I witnessed a road accident near my school where two medical helicopters and an ambulance arrived. After a few minutes, the helicopters evacuated the casualties and took them to the nearest hospital.
I never thought I would one day need emergency help, until that freezing winter night when I needed help and Japan's emergency response saved my life.
These life-saving moments led me to write this blog about Japan’s healthcare system. I'll explain how Japanese health insurance works, what to expect from medical expenses, emergency hotlines, and how Japan's healthcare system may help you or your loved ones in an emergency.
Calling 119 on a Winter Night
On a cold winter night, I felt a strange chest pain and had difficulty breathing. The trains had already stopped running after midnight, and living alone in my apartment in Japan added to my fear. I had no idea what was going on, but I knew I needed immediate help, so I called the emergency hotline 119.
The phone was answered quickly and was connected to an interpreter. Within a few minutes, the ambulance arrived with three professional medical responders. They started checking my vital signs and running an ECG in the ambulance while coordinating with the nearest hospital over the phone.
Upon arriving at the hospital ER, they endorsed my records to the two doctors and a nurse who assessed my condition. They performed ECG, blood tests, an X-ray, and a full physical exam. Each result came back fast. Thankfully, everything was normal, and I was diagnosed with an asthma attack, caused by the cold and dry winter air.
I was treated with a steroid IV, nebulized, and given an inhaler until I started feeling better. The doctors and nurses explained everything clearly using their translation device, including my medical history and treatment options.
How Japan’s Healthcare System Works
Japan’s healthcare system ranks second in the Health and Health Systems Ranking of Countries Worldwide in 2023. This is clear from the fact that Japan has one of the world's greatest life expectancies.
Preventive healthcare is a priority in sustaining universal health in Japan, with frequent medical check-ups and early detection programs that lead to long-term health results.
Comprehensive health insurance coverage is accessible to all residents, including foreigners, through its public health insurance system, regardless of income or employment status.
Understanding how the Japanese healthcare system works can save a life, especially for foreign residents like me. So, here’s a guide on what you need to know about healthcare and emergency services in Japan.
Understanding Japan’s Health Insurance
Japan offers two primary healthcare coverage options: National Health Insurance (NHI) for residents who aren’t employed by a company, and Employee Health Insurance for those who work for an employer.
National Health Insurance (NHI) 国民健康保険
For those who are staying in Japan for over 3 months, such as freelancers, part-time workers, or unemployed residents.
70% of medical expenses are covered. You pay the remaining 30% out of pocket.
The premiums are calculated based on your previous year’s income and place of residence. They are paid monthly and can be adjusted annually.
Additional Benefits:
You can add family members to your policy.
Some municipalities offer free or subsidized medical check-ups.
A lump-sum payment (usually around ¥420,000) for childbirth and maternity benefits..
How to Enroll:
Apply at your local city/ward office within 14 days of moving to Japan or after losing other insurance coverage.
Employee Health Insurance (Shakai Hoken) – 社会保険
For employees working full-time or part-time with contracts who meet specific working hours and income thresholds.
70% of medical expenses are covered. You pay the remaining 30%.
The premium is automatically deducted from your monthly salary. Your employer covers part of the premium.
Additional Benefits:
Enrollment includes Japan’s pension system. Upon leaving Japan, expats may apply for the Lump-Sum Withdrawal Payment of the pension contributions.
Financial support for extended medical leave.
Lump-sum payment for childbirth and financial assistance during maternity leave.
Family members can be covered under your insurance.
Some employers may offer free or subsidized annual health check-ups.
How to Enroll:
Your employer will automatically enroll you once you begin your contract.
What’s the difference?
NHI: You pay the full premium on your own.
Employee Health Insurance: Premiums are shared with your employer, and additional benefits (like pension contributions and sick leave) are included.
In my experience, when I was admitted to the hospital, my employee health insurance covered 70% of the hospital bills, and I only had to pay 30%. This helps a lot and I didn’t have to worry about huge out-of-pocket expenses.
Emergency Hotlines in Japan
Knowing the emergency number to call can save someone’s life. As an expat, you’d better memorize these numbers.
119 (Fire & Ambulance): This is the number to contact for medical emergencies or in the event of a fire. The 119 operator will connect your call to emergency services and provide assistance to your area. Every city has sufficient ambulances and fire vehicles, with trained rescuers available 24/7. A translator is provided on the line, which is a big help if you do not speak Japanese.
110 (Police): Call this number to report a crime, an accident, or whenever you need the police.
#7119 (Non-emergency Medical Consultation): If you're not sure if your condition requires emergency care, contact #7119 for assistance from medical specialists. This service is also available in English.
Make sure to save these emergency hotlines in your phone to ensure quick help when you need it most. It’s best to remember them so you're ready for any emergency situation in Japan.
Medical Costs in Japan
Healthcare in Japan can be very expensive without insurance. However, Japan’s healthcare system eases the financial strain of medical bills. With insurance, you pay only 30% out of pocket and the rest is covered.
Here's an updated overview of medical costs in Japan:
With Health Insurance:
In fiscal year 2022, Japan's average yearly medical costs per capita for inpatient care were roughly ¥139,000.
Clinics charge from approximately ¥5,000 to ¥10,000 each visit.
Hospitals charge from around ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 every visit.
Emergency Expenses
Costs vary depending on the severity of the condition. In December 2024, I spent ¥10,700 (about $70 USD) for an emergency department visit that included an ambulance trip, diagnostics, and prescriptions. Without insurance, it would have been around ¥35,667 (roughly $245 USD).
In fiscal year 2022, Japan's average yearly medical costs per capita for inpatient care were roughly ¥139,000.
Post-Treatment: Taxi Services and Care
After your treatment, you’ll be given options for transportation home if needed. In my case, the hospital arranged for a taxi via the city’s 24-hour hotline. The taxi arrived quickly at that time though it was already past 3 AM. The whole process—from treatment to getting home—was incredibly efficient and smooth!
Here's an overview of post-treatment transportation options:
Hospital-Arranged Transportation:
Many hospitals have arrangements with local taxi companies to assist patients, especially during late hours.
For instance, the National Center for Global Health and Medicine offers services to international patients, including assistance with transportation.
Discharge Procedures:
Hospitals typically provide discharge instructions and may assist in arranging transportation.
Some hospitals, like Tamagawa Hospital, offer guidance on discharge procedures, including transportation options.
Private Medical Transport Services:
Companies like Japan Private Drivers offer specialized transport services for medical appointments and treatments.
Emergency Assistance for Foreign Nationals:
Emergency Assistance Japan (EAJ) provides support to foreign nationals, including assistance with medical transportation and language support.
Considerations:
The availability of these services can vary based on the hospital's location and resources.
Some hospitals offer multilingual support, which can be beneficial for non-Japanese speakers.
It’s such a great help that Japanese hospitals often facilitate post-treatment transportation, especially during late hours, to ensure patients return home safely.
Why Japan’s Healthcare System is a Lifesaver
Reflecting on that night when I was rescued, I can’t help but think how the emergency medical response system in Japan is saving lives each day 24/7, and I now have first-hand experience of how effective it truly is.
Japan’s healthcare system prioritizes swift medical assistance and quality care in emergencies. Japanese healthcare is designed to respond quickly to save lives. It’s reassuring to know that Japan’s medical teams make sure you’re in safe hands.
Japan’s healthcare system is also affordable, with insurance covering the majority of your medical costs. As an expat, understanding how health insurance works and knowing what to do in an emergency can make all the difference. I never thought I would experience it personally, but now I’m even more grateful for the swift and compassionate care I received that night.
If you find yourself in an emergency, don’t hesitate—call 119, and rest assured that help will be on the way!
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