Guide to Visiting a Hospital in Japan: Steps to Protect Your Health

Japan is renowned for its advanced medical system and technology. However, navigating the Japanese healthcare system can be challenging for overseas visitors and foreign residents due to language barriers and cultural differences. Understanding the procedures and key points when visiting a hospital is crucial for ensuring a smooth experience. In this article, we will explain the basic procedures and considerations to keep in mind when seeking medical care in Japan, helping you to better understand the healthcare system and prepare for your visit to a doctor. Understanding how to visit a hospital in Japan is an important step in safeguarding your health.

1. Preparation Before Going to the Hospital

Large hospitals and general hospitals with inpatient facilities in Japan typically require a referral from another medical institution to make a direct appointment. This referral helps to direct you to the appropriate specialist based on the severity of your condition and symptoms. Therefore, your first step should be to visit your local general practitioner for a consultation. In Japan, medical practitioners specialize in various departments, such as internal medicine, orthopedics, ophthalmology, and dermatology. When choosing a department, consider your symptoms and condition. You can find information about hospital departments on their websites or at the reception desk. If you are unsure, it is advisable to contact the hospital by phone.

2. Visiting a Doctor and Receiving a Prescription

When visiting a doctor, ensure you arrive on time for your appointment. In hospitals, the typical process includes reception, a preliminary interview by a nurse, tests if necessary, the doctor’s examination, and accounting. At many hospitals and clinics, patients pay the bill at the end of the consultation. If the doctor prescribes medication, it can be dispensed at the hospital pharmacy or a drugstore. Prescriptions issued in Japan can be filled at any pharmacy in the country.

3. Receiving Prescriptions and Dispensing Medicines at Pharmacies

After receiving your prescription, visit a pharmacy. Submit your prescription to the reception desk, where the pharmacist will check it and dispense the medicine according to the doctor’s instructions. You may be asked about your medical history and current medications. Pharmacists also verify the prescription to ensure its accuracy. Data from 2017 indicates that approximately 3 million prescriptions are issued per month in Japan. Pharmacists play a crucial role in confirming prescription details and suggesting changes if necessary. After dispensing the medication, the pharmacy will handle billing, so be sure to bring your insurance card or health insurance card.

Challenges for Foreigners Visiting Hospitals

For many foreigners, the initial step of finding the right healthcare provider or making an appointment can be challenging due to language barriers and differences in healthcare systems. To support foreigners, our pharmacy provides a consultation sheet in Japanese for filling out symptoms and requests. We may also assist in making appointments at suitable hospitals and search for facilities that accept reservations in languages other than Japanese. With our support, foreigners can visit hospitals with confidence, ensuring they receive the medical care they need smoothly.