Sapporo

1. Emergency Contact Numbers

In case of a medical emergency in Sapporo, you can use the following numbers:

• Ambulance and Fire Services (Emergency): Dial 119
  • Free to call from any phone, including public payphones.
  • Operators may not always speak English, so it’s helpful to know basic Japanese phrases or have someone assist you.
• Police (Non-Medical Emergencies): Dial 110
• Japan Helpline (24/7 Multilingual Support): Dial 0570-000-911
  • Offers assistance in English and other languages for emergencies, including medical issues.

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2. Major Hospitals and Clinics in Sapporo

Sapporo has several hospitals and clinics that cater to foreigners, including English-speaking services. Below are some key facilities:

Hospitals

1. Hokkaido University Hospital

   • Address: Kita 14, Nishi 5, Kita-ku, Sapporo
   • Phone: +81-11-716-1161
   • Services: A large teaching hospital offering advanced medical care. Some staff members speak English, and they have an international patient desk.
   • Website: Hokkaido University Hospital

2. Sapporo Medical University Hospital

   • Address: South 1, West 16, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
   • Phone: +81-11-611-2111
   • Services: Comprehensive medical services, including emergency care. English-speaking staff are available in some departments.
   • Website: Sapporo Medical University Hospital

3. NTT East Sapporo Medical Center

   • Address: 5-1-1 Higashi-Sapporo, Shiroishi-ku, Sapporo
   • Phone: +81-11-821-0111
   • Services: General and specialized care. Some English-speaking staff are available.

Clinics

1. Sapporo International Clinic

   • Address: Kita 1, Nishi 28, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
   • Phone: +81-11-611-7500
   • Services: Specializes in providing care for foreigners, with English-speaking doctors and staff. Offers general medicine, pediatrics, and vaccinations.
   • Website: Sapporo International Clinic

2. Tokeidai Memorial Clinic

   • Address: Kita 1, Nishi 3, Chuo-ku, Sapporo
   • Phone: +81-11-221-4060
   • Services: General outpatient care with English-speaking staff. Conveniently located in central Sapporo.

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3. Common Healthcare Procedures

Understanding the healthcare process in Japan is essential for smooth navigation:

For Visitors:

• Step 1: Find a Medical Facility

  • Use online resources like the Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) website or contact your hotel concierge for recommendations.
  • Call ahead to confirm English-speaking services and availability.

• Step 2: Bring Identification

  • Always carry your passport and travel insurance card when visiting a medical facility.

• Step 3: Payment

  • Visitors are required to pay upfront for medical services. Keep receipts for reimbursement from your travel insurance provider.

For Residents:

• Step 1: Obtain Health Insurance

  • Residents are required to enroll in either the National Health Insurance (NHI) or the Employee Health Insurance (EHI) system.
  • Insurance covers 70% of medical costs, leaving you to pay 30% out-of-pocket.

• Step 2: Visit a Medical Facility

  • Present your health insurance card at the reception desk.
  • Payment for the remaining 30% is made after the consultation.

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4. Costs of Medical Services

Medical costs in Japan are relatively affordable compared to many Western countries, especially if you have insurance. Below is a general breakdown:

• Consultation Fee (Without Insurance): ¥5,000–¥10,000 ($35–$70 USD)
• Consultation Fee (With Insurance): ¥1,500–¥3,000 ($10–$20 USD)
• X-rays or Basic Tests: ¥5,000–¥20,000 ($35–$140 USD)
• Hospital Stay (Per Day): ¥10,000–¥30,000 ($70–$210 USD)
• Medication: ¥1,000–¥5,000 ($7–$35 USD) depending on the prescription.

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5. Accessing Healthcare as a Visitor or Resident

Visitors:

• Travel Insurance: Ensure you have comprehensive travel insurance before arriving in Japan. Most hospitals and clinics require upfront payment, and you can claim reimbursement later.
• Language Support: Use translation apps like Google Translate or bring a Japanese-speaking friend to assist with communication.

Residents:

• National Health Insurance (NHI):
  • Enroll at your local ward office within 14 days of moving to Japan.
  • Premiums are based on your income and are paid monthly.
• Employee Health Insurance (EHI):
  • Provided by your employer and deducted from your salary.
  • Covers dependents as well.

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6. Cultural Considerations and Tips

• Language Barrier:

  • While many hospitals in Sapporo have English-speaking staff, smaller clinics may not. Carry a phrasebook or use a translation app.
  • Learn basic Japanese phrases like:
    • "Byouin wa doko desu ka?" (Where is the hospital?)
    • "Eigo o hanasemasu ka?" (Do you speak English?)
    • "Kyuukyuu desu!" (It’s an emergency!)

• Appointments:

  • Japanese healthcare facilities often require appointments, especially for non-emergency cases. Call ahead to schedule.
  • Be punctual, as timeliness is highly valued in Japan.

• Pharmacies (薬局, Yakkyoku):

  • Pharmacies are separate from clinics and hospitals. You’ll need to take your prescription to a pharmacy to get medication.
  • Look for signs that say "薬局" or "Pharmacy."

• Politeness:

  • Bowing and polite language are customary. Be respectful to medical staff and follow their instructions carefully.

• Shoes:

  • Some clinics and hospitals may require you to remove your shoes or wear indoor slippers. Follow the facility’s guidelines.

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7. Additional Resources

• Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Medical Assistance:
  • Website: JNTO Medical Assistance
  • Provides a list of English-speaking medical facilities and a 24/7 hotline for assistance.
• Multilingual Medical Questionnaire:
  • Downloadable forms in multiple languages to help you communicate symptoms and medical history: Multilingual Medical Questionnaire

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By following this guide, you’ll be well-prepared to navigate the healthcare system in Sapporo, Japan, whether you’re a visitor or a resident. Stay safe and healthy!