Kobe
Healthcare
General information on access to medical services, hospitals, clinics, and health insurance for immigrants and visitors to Kobe.
Sections
1. Overview of Japanโs Healthcare System
Japan operates a universal healthcare system, meaning all residents (including foreign residents) are required to enroll in health insurance, either through:
- National Health Insurance (NHI): For self-employed individuals, students, and retirees.
- Employee Health Insurance (EHI): For those employed full-time by a company.
This system ensures that healthcare is affordable and accessible to everyone. Visitors to Japan, however, are not covered by this system and should have travel insurance to cover medical expenses.
2. Benefits of Healthcare in Kobe
Kobe, as a major city in Japan, offers excellent healthcare services with modern facilities, highly trained medical professionals, and a focus on patient care. Here are the key benefits:
a. High-Quality Medical Care
- Kobe is home to some of Japanโs leading hospitals and clinics, equipped with advanced medical technology.
- Many healthcare providers in Kobe are accustomed to treating international patients, especially since the city has a significant expatriate population.
b. Affordable Costs
- Under the national insurance system, patients typically pay 30% of the total medical costs, while the government covers the remaining 70%.
- For low-income individuals or those with chronic illnesses, additional subsidies may reduce out-of-pocket expenses further.
- Children under 15 and seniors over 75 often receive additional discounts or free care.
c. Comprehensive Coverage
- The insurance covers a wide range of services, including general consultations, specialist visits, hospitalization, surgeries, maternity care, and prescription medications.
- Preventive care, such as health check-ups and vaccinations, is also included.
d. Emergency Services
- Kobe has a well-organized emergency medical system, with ambulances available by dialing 119. Emergency care is covered under the national insurance system.
3. Costs of Healthcare in Kobe
For Residents:
- Monthly insurance premiums depend on your income and age. For example:
- A self-employed individual might pay around ยฅ15,000โยฅ30,000 per month.
- Employees have premiums deducted from their salaries, with employers covering half the cost.
- At the point of care, you pay 30% of the cost. For example:
- A general consultation might cost ยฅ2,000โยฅ3,000.
- A specialist visit could cost ยฅ5,000โยฅ10,000.
- Hospitalization costs vary but are capped under the insurance system.
For Visitors:
- Visitors must pay the full cost of care upfront unless they have travel insurance. Costs can be high without insurance:
- A consultation may cost ยฅ10,000โยฅ20,000.
- Hospitalization can cost ยฅ50,000โยฅ100,000 per day.
4. Procedures for Accessing Healthcare in Kobe
a. For Residents:
- Enroll in Health Insurance: Upon moving to Kobe, register for NHI at your local ward office (ๅบๅฝนๆ, kuyakusho). Bring your residence card and proof of address.
- Choose a Medical Facility: You can visit any clinic or hospital, but itโs common to start with a local clinic for non-urgent issues.
- Bring Your Insurance Card: Always carry your health insurance card (hokensho) when visiting a healthcare provider.
- Pay at the Point of Care: Youโll pay 30% of the cost at the reception desk after your appointment.
b. For Visitors:
- Find a Suitable Facility: Look for hospitals or clinics that accept international patients (see below for recommendations).
- Bring Identification and Payment: Youโll need your passport and a credit card or cash to pay upfront.
- Use Travel Insurance: Submit receipts to your travel insurance provider for reimbursement.
5. Healthcare Facilities in Kobe
Kobe has a mix of general hospitals, specialized clinics, and international medical centers. Here are some notable facilities:
a. Kobe City Medical Center General Hospital (็ฅๆธๅธ็ซๅป็ใปใณใฟใผไธญๅคฎๅธๆฐ็ ้ข)
- One of the largest and most advanced hospitals in Kobe.
- Offers a wide range of specialties, including cardiology, oncology, and pediatrics.
- Has English-speaking staff and an international patient support desk.
- Location: 2-1-1 Minatojima Minamimachi, Chuo-ku, Kobe.
b. Kobe Kaisei Hospital (็ฅๆธๆตทๆ็ ้ข)
- Known for its high-quality care and English-speaking staff.
- Offers general medicine, surgery, and maternity care.
- Location: 3-11-15 Shin-Kobe, Chuo-ku, Kobe.
c. Rokko Island Hospital (ๅ ญ็ฒใขใคใฉใณใ็ ้ข)
- Located on Rokko Island, this hospital is convenient for expatriates living in the area.
- Offers family medicine, internal medicine, and emergency care.
- Location: 2-11 Koyocho Naka, Higashinada-ku, Kobe.
d. Kobe International Medical Exchange Center
- Specializes in assisting international patients with navigating the Japanese healthcare system.
- Provides interpretation services and guidance on medical procedures.
- Location: 1-5-1 Wakinohama Kaigandori, Chuo-ku, Kobe.
6. Cultural Considerations
- Language Barrier: While many doctors in Kobe speak some English, itโs helpful to bring a Japanese-speaking friend or use a medical interpretation service. Some hospitals offer interpretation services for free or a small fee.
- Appointments: Most clinics operate on a first-come, first-served basis, but larger hospitals often require appointments. Call ahead to confirm.
- Pharmacies (่ฌๅฑ, yakkyoku): Prescriptions are filled at pharmacies, which are often located near clinics. Show your prescription and insurance card to receive discounted medication.
- Politeness and Patience: Japanese healthcare providers are known for their professionalism and politeness. Patients are expected to be respectful and patient, even if there are delays.
7. Tips for Visitors and New Residents
- Emergency Numbers: Dial 119 for an ambulance. Note that ambulance services are free, but hospital treatment is not.
- Carry Cash: Some smaller clinics may not accept credit cards.
- Health Check-Ups: Kobe offers annual health check-ups (ningen dock) at many hospitals, which are highly recommended for preventive care.
- Vaccinations: Ensure your vaccinations are up to date. Kobe clinics also offer flu shots and other vaccines.
8. Final Thoughts
Healthcare in Kobe is reliable, affordable (for residents), and accessible, with a strong emphasis on patient care. By understanding the system and preparing in advance, you can navigate it with ease. Whether youโre a resident or a visitor, Kobeโs healthcare facilities are well-equipped to meet your needs. If you have specific concerns or require assistance, donโt hesitate to contact an international medical center or your local ward office for guidance.