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Japan Healthcare Guide

Universal healthcare with only 30% co-pay — one of the best and most affordable systems in the world.

🏥 System Overview

Japan has mandatory universal health insurance for all residents. You pay only 30% of medical costs — the government covers 70%. Extremely affordable and high quality.

🏛️ National Health Insurance (NHI)

For: Self-employed, students, freelancers
Cost: Income-based (¥15,000-¥50,000/month)
Co-pay: 30% (you pay only 30%!)
Covers: Almost everything
Enroll: At your city/ward office

💼 Shakai Hoken (Employee Insurance)

For: Company employees
Cost: Split 50/50 with employer
Better coverage than NHI
Includes: Pension, health, employment insurance
Automatic: Deducted from salary

💊 What's Covered

• Doctor visits (30% co-pay)
• Prescriptions (30% co-pay — very cheap!)
• Hospital stays
• Surgery
• Mental health
• Dental (basic — 30%)
Monthly cap: ¥80,100 (high-cost medical expense system)

🩺 Using Healthcare

  • No GP system: Go directly to any clinic or hospital. No referral needed.
  • Clinics: Small neighborhood clinics for most things. Very accessible.
  • Typical visit: ¥1,000-¥3,000 (your 30% share) — incredibly affordable!
  • Prescription: ¥500-¥2,000 typically (your 30% share)
  • Emergency: Call 119. Ambulance is FREE. Hospital decides on care.
  • Language: Limited English. Bring translation app or use AMDA helpline.
  • Longevity: Japan has world's highest life expectancy (84.7 years)!