Yokohama
๐ฅ
Healthcare and Medical Assistance
Access to emergency healthcare and understanding hospital and medical systems in Yokohama.
Sections
1. Types of Medical Facilities in Yokohama
Yokohama, as Japan's second-largest city, has a well-developed healthcare system with a variety of medical facilities, including:
- Hospitals (Byลin / ็ ้ข): Large facilities offering comprehensive care, including emergency services, specialized departments (e.g., cardiology, orthopedics), and inpatient care. Examples include Yokohama City University Hospital and Yokohama Rosai Hospital.
- Clinics (Klinikku or Shinryลjo / ใฏใชใใใฏ or ่จบ็ๆ): Smaller facilities for general outpatient care, often specializing in specific fields such as internal medicine, pediatrics, or dermatology.
- Dental Clinics (Shika / ๆญฏ็ง): Widely available for routine dental care and emergency dental issues.
- Pharmacies (Yakkyoku / ่ฌๅฑ): Found throughout the city, offering prescription and over-the-counter medications. Some pharmacies also provide basic health consultations.
2. Emergency Medical Services
- Emergency Numbers:
- Dial 119 for ambulance services (free of charge).
- Dial 110 for police assistance in case of accidents or other emergencies.
- Ambulance Services:
- Ambulances are free but should only be used for genuine emergencies. They will transport you to the nearest hospital capable of handling your condition.
- Emergency Hospitals:
- Yokohama has designated emergency hospitals, such as Yokohama City University Hospital, which are equipped to handle critical cases.
- After-Hours Clinics:
- For non-life-threatening emergencies outside regular hours, Yokohama has after-hours and holiday medical centers. The Yokohama Night Emergency Medical Center (Yokohama Yakan Kyลซbyล Center) is a key facility.
3. Costs of Medical Care
- General Costs:
- Medical care in Japan is high-quality but can be expensive without insurance. A consultation at a clinic may cost ยฅ5,000โยฅ10,000, while hospital visits can range from ยฅ10,000โยฅ30,000 or more, depending on the treatment.
- Prescription medications are an additional cost.
- Emergency Care:
- Emergency treatment can be costly, especially if hospitalization or surgery is required.
- Payment Methods:
- Most facilities accept cash, and many now accept credit cards. However, itโs advisable to carry cash as a backup.
4. Insurance Requirements
- National Health Insurance (NHI / Kokumin Kenkล Hoken):
- Residents, including foreign residents staying in Japan for more than three months, are required to enroll in the NHI. It covers 70% of medical costs, leaving you to pay 30%.
- Employee Health Insurance (Shakai Hoken):
- If you are employed, your employer will typically enroll you in this insurance, which also covers 70% of medical costs.
- Travel Insurance:
- Visitors should have travel insurance that covers medical expenses, as they are not eligible for NHI.
- Private Insurance:
- Some residents and visitors opt for private insurance to cover additional costs or services not included in NHI.
5. Accessing Healthcare as a Foreigner
- Finding a Facility:
- Use resources like the Yokohama Medical Information Center (Himawari) to locate English-speaking doctors and facilities.
- Many hospitals and clinics display signs in English or other languages.
- Making an Appointment:
- Appointments are often required, especially for non-emergency care. Call ahead or use online booking systems where available.
- Walk-Ins:
- Some clinics accept walk-ins, but wait times may be longer.
- Documents to Bring:
- Bring your passport, residence card (if applicable), and insurance card. If you have travel insurance, carry a copy of your policy.
6. Language Support Availability
- English-Speaking Doctors:
- Some hospitals and clinics in Yokohama have English-speaking staff. The Yokohama City University Hospital and St. Lukeโs International Hospital in nearby Tokyo are known for their multilingual services.
- Translation Services:
- The Yokohama Medical Information Center (Himawari) offers telephone interpretation services in multiple languages, including English, Chinese, and Korean.
- Some hospitals provide in-house interpreters or access to remote interpretation services.
- Apps and Tools:
- Use translation apps like Google Translate or Pocketalk for basic communication. The Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) also provides a 24-hour medical assistance hotline.
7. Cultural Considerations
- Politeness and Patience:
- Japanese healthcare providers are highly professional but may not always communicate directly or in detail. Be patient and ask questions if you need clarification.
- Removing Shoes:
- In some clinics, you may be required to remove your shoes before entering. Look for slippers provided at the entrance.
- Privacy:
- Japanese culture values privacy, so expect a high level of discretion during consultations.
- Medication:
- Japanese prescriptions may differ from what you are used to in your home country. If you require specific medications, bring a supply or a prescription from your home doctor.
- Punctuality:
- Arrive on time for appointments, as punctuality is highly valued in Japan.
8. Additional Resources
- Yokohama Medical Information Center (Himawari):
- Website: http://www.himawari.metro.tokyo.jp/
- Phone: 045-201-1199
- Provides information on medical facilities and language support.
- Japan National Tourism Organization (JNTO) Medical Assistance Hotline:
- Phone: +81-50-3816-2787 (24/7, English available)
- Offers guidance on accessing healthcare in Japan.
By understanding the healthcare system in Yokohama and preparing accordingly, you can ensure that you receive the care you need with minimal stress. If you have further questions or need specific recommendations, feel free to ask!