Yokohama

1. Overview of Emergency Medical Services in Yokohama

Yokohama, as Japan's second-largest city, has a well-organized and efficient emergency medical system. The city provides high-quality healthcare services, but navigating the system can be challenging for non-Japanese speakers due to language and cultural differences. Emergency services are categorized into ambulance services, emergency medical clinics, and hospital emergency departments.

---

2. Types of Emergency Services Available

a. Ambulance Services

• Ambulances in Yokohama are operated by the Yokohama Fire Department and are free of charge for emergency use.
• Ambulances are equipped with basic life support equipment and staffed by trained paramedics.
• They transport patients to the nearest appropriate hospital based on the severity of the condition.

b. Emergency Medical Clinics

• For non-life-threatening emergencies, there are after-hours emergency clinics (夜間急病診療所, Yakan Kyūbyō Shinryōjo) that provide care for minor injuries or illnesses.
• These clinics are open during evenings, weekends, and public holidays when regular clinics are closed.

c. Hospital Emergency Departments

• Major hospitals in Yokohama have emergency departments (ERs) for more serious conditions.
• Some hospitals are designated as emergency care centers (救命救急センター, Kyūmei Kyūkyū Sentā) and handle critical cases.

---

3. Contact Information for Emergency Services

a. Emergency Numbers

• Ambulance and Fire Services: Dial 119 (free, available 24/7).
  • When calling, you can request an ambulance by saying "救急車" (Kyūkyūsha, meaning ambulance).
• Police (for accidents or emergencies involving crime): Dial 110.

b. Non-Emergency Medical Assistance

• Yokohama Emergency Medical Information Center: Dial #7119 (for advice on whether to call an ambulance or visit a hospital).
  • Available in Japanese, but some operators may provide limited English support.

c. Multilingual Medical Assistance

• AMDA International Medical Information Center: Dial 03-6233-9266 (9:00 AM–8:00 PM, multilingual support in English, Chinese, Korean, and other languages).
• Japan Helpline: Dial 0570-000-911 (24/7, English support).

---

4. Costs Involved

• Ambulance Services: Free of charge for emergency transport.
• Emergency Room Visits: Costs vary depending on the hospital and treatment required. Expect to pay:
  • Initial consultation fee: ¥5,000–¥10,000 (higher for after-hours services).
  • Treatment costs: Additional charges for tests, medications, or procedures.
• Health Insurance:
  • If you have Japanese National Health Insurance (NHI), you will pay 30% of the total cost.
  • Without insurance, you must pay the full amount upfront, which can be expensive.
• Travel Insurance: Visitors are strongly advised to have travel insurance to cover medical expenses.

---

5. Procedure to Call for Help

1. Dial 119 for an Ambulance:

   • Clearly state your location (use landmarks if unsure of the address).
   • Describe the emergency (e.g., "heart attack," "accident," etc.).
   • If you don’t speak Japanese, say "English, please" (英語お願いします, Eigo onegaishimasu).
   • Stay on the line until the operator confirms the details.

2. Prepare for the Ambulance Arrival:

   • Ensure someone is available to guide the ambulance to the exact location.
   • Have identification, insurance documents, and any medical history ready.

3. At the Hospital:

   • Upon arrival, you will be asked to fill out forms. If you don’t speak Japanese, request assistance or use a translation app.
   • Payment is typically required after treatment. Credit cards are accepted at most hospitals.

---

6. Cultural and Language Considerations

a. Language Barriers

• Most emergency responders and hospital staff speak limited English. It’s helpful to know basic Japanese phrases or have a translation app (e.g., Google Translate or Pocketalk).
• Carry a card with your personal details, allergies, and medical history written in Japanese.

b. Cultural Norms

• Japanese healthcare professionals are highly professional and respectful, but they may not explain procedures in detail unless asked. Don’t hesitate to ask questions or request clarification.
• Privacy is highly valued, so expect a formal and polite approach.

c. Documentation

• Always carry your passport, visa, and health insurance card (if applicable). These are required for hospital registration.

---

7. Tips for Navigating the Local Healthcare System

1. Plan Ahead:

   • Research nearby hospitals and clinics before an emergency occurs.
   • Save emergency numbers and addresses in your phone.

2. Use Multilingual Resources:

   • The Yokohama City website provides information on medical facilities with English-speaking staff.
   • Download the Japan Hospital Search app for locating hospitals with foreign language support.

3. Know Your Insurance Coverage:

   • If you’re a resident, ensure you’re enrolled in the National Health Insurance (NHI) system.
   • Visitors should confirm their travel insurance covers medical emergencies in Japan.

4. Emergency Medical Translation Services:

   • Some hospitals offer interpretation services, but availability may vary. Check in advance if you anticipate needing assistance.

5. Non-Emergency Medical Needs:

   • For minor illnesses, visit a local clinic (診療所, Shinryōjo) during regular hours to avoid high ER costs.

---

8. Key Emergency Hospitals in Yokohama

Here are some major hospitals with emergency services and foreign language support:

1. Yokohama City University Hospital (横浜市立大学附属病院)

   • Address: 3-9 Fukuura, Kanazawa-ku, Yokohama
   • Phone: 045-787-2800
   • Languages: Limited English support.

2. St. Marianna University Yokohama City Seibu Hospital (聖マリアンナ医科大学横浜市西部病院)

   • Address: 1197-1 Yasashicho, Asahi-ku, Yokohama
   • Phone: 045-366-1111
   • Languages: Limited English support.

3. Yokohama Rosai Hospital (横浜労災病院)

   • Address: 3211 Kozukuecho, Kohoku-ku, Yokohama
   • Phone: 045-474-8111
   • Languages: Limited English support.

---

9. Final Advice

• Stay calm during emergencies and provide as much information as possible to responders.
• Familiarize yourself with basic Japanese phrases for emergencies, such as:
  • "Help!" (助けて, Tasukete)
  • "I need a doctor" (医者が必要です, Isha ga hitsuyō desu)
  • "I don’t speak Japanese" (日本語が話せません, Nihongo ga hanasemasen).
• Always have a plan for emergencies, especially if you’re traveling with children, elderly individuals, or those with pre-existing conditions.

By being prepared and informed, you can navigate Yokohama’s emergency medical services with confidence.

---

Let me know if you need further clarification or additional resources!