As a foreigner living in Japan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
We asked expats in Japan if they have access to public healthcare in Japan. And, if they do have access, what is it like. They wrote...
"Yes, as a foreigner living in Japan, you will have access to public healthcare. The public healthcare system in Japan is comprehensive and provides a wide range of services, including preventive care, diagnosis, treatment, and rehabilitation. The system is funded by taxes and premiums paid by citizens and residents, and is managed by the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare. The quality of care is generally high, and the cost of services is relatively low compared to other countries," remarked another expat in Japan.
"There is a national health insurance that everyone (expats and Japanese people) is enrolled in. Its cost is based off of your previous year’s income. It covers 70% of most medical costs, but preventative care is not covered (flu shots, checkups, etc.). There are public and private hospitals available," said a member in Tokyo, Japan.
Cigna Global HealthGet Quote
With Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
Cigna Global HealthWith Cigna Global Health Options, you can create an international health insurance plan that's perfectly tailored for the needs of you and your family. We provide the reassurance of comprehensive core cover, and the flexibility of adding as many extra benefits as you want to ensure you have a plan perfectly suited to your needs.
Get Quote
Please login to continue reading this article.
Not a member? Join Today (it's free).
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Japan?
- How do I meet people in Japan?
- What is life like in Japan?
- Is there a lot of crime in Japan?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Japan accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Japan like?
- Is the cost of living in Japan high?
- What advice do you have for expats having a baby in Japan?
- What are healthcare services like in Japan?
- Is the cost of living in Japan high?
- What type of recreational facilities are in Japan?
- What is the weather like in Japan?
- Are there good restaurants in Japan?
- Where will I buy groceries and do other shopping in Japan?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Japan?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Japan?
- What do I need to know when buying property in Japan?
- Are foreigners allowed to own property in Japan?
- What appliances are typically included in a rental?
As a foreigner living in Japan, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
If you live in Japan, newcomers to Japan would love to hear your answer to this question:
About the Author
Joshua Wood, LPC is one of the Founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and serves as Co-President of Expat Exchange. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Joshua worked for NBC Cable (MSNBC and CNBC
Primetime). Joshua has a BA from Syracuse and a Master's in Clinical and Counseling Psychology from Fairleigh Dickinson University. Mr. Wood is also a licensed counselor and psychotherapist.
Some of Joshua's articles include Pros and Cons of Living in Portugal, 10 Best Places to Live in Ireland and Pros and Cons of Living in Uruguay. Connect with Joshua on LinkedIn.