Q: What is the process for outpatient visits in Japan?
A: The outpatient process follows these steps:
1. Arrive at the clinic at your scheduled time and submit your medical card to the receptionist.
2. There are three methods to confirm your order for consultation:
3. The consultation process includes: ① Identity verification → ② Doctor’s examination → ③ Determine treatment plan based on test results and consultation content → ④ Schedule the next appointment.
4. Receive treatment (infusions, injections, oral prescriptions, etc.).
5. Payment: There are two payment methods:
*Foreign patients may have different payment options. Our company can provide support; feel free to inquire at any time.
Q: How long does an outpatient visit take?
A: Since many medical institutions operate on an appointment basis, there usually isn’t a long wait if you arrive as scheduled. For simple consultations without treatment, it typically takes less than 1 hour. If treatments like infusions are needed, it will require additional time. The display screen near the consultation room shows the numbers of patients being consulted, so you can estimate the waiting time.
Q: Is it okay if I can’t speak Japanese?
A: Yes, it’s fine. Our company provides extensive support in selecting and scheduling medical institutions, interpreting on the day of the consultation, and follow-up after returning home.
Q: Can I eat during the outpatient visit?
A: Eating may be restricted during examinations as it could affect the results. Additionally, as a courtesy in Japanese medical institutions, eating in the consultation room is discouraged, even if there are no dietary restrictions, due to cleanliness and waste concerns. Small amounts of water are acceptable. We will provide you with clarity on what to consider when seeking medical care in Japan beforehand.
Q: What costs should I be aware of for the consultation?
A: You will need to pay the following fees:
1. Registration fee
2. Examination fee
3. Treatment fee (surgery, infusion, injection, etc.)
4. Medication costs (oral medication)
5. Coordination fee (selection of medical institution, scheduling, payment facilitation, interpreter dispatch, follow-up on health status after treatment, etc.)
Q: Do I need to consider visa matters when seeking medical care in Japan?
A: There are two possibilities:
1. Short-term stay visa (for short treatment durations)
2. Medical visa (for long-term treatment) *If you need assistance with obtaining a
medical visa, our company can help; feel free to reach out.
Q: What should I note during my stay in Japan?
A: Our company can book hotels near medical institutions for you. It’s advisable to rent a Wi-Fi device to use the internet in Japan. E-Wallets may not be accepted for shopping and restaurant payments, so carrying a credit card or exchanging cash into Japanese yen is recommended for emergencies.
Q: Can I travel, shop, and enjoy food on non-treatment days?
A: Unless the doctor has specific activity restrictions during the treatment period, you can travel. We can arrange accommodation, transportation, tickets, and restaurant bookings to meet your non-medical needs.
Q: Can I talk to a doctor before going to Japan?
A: If the medical institutions we recommend offer telemedicine services, you can have an online consultation with a doctor before traveling to Japan (for a fee). The doctor can understand your health condition, ensuring a worry-free medical trip.
Q: I want to make an appointment with a medical institution in Japan.
A: Our company will consult with you based on your needs and health status and recommend the most suitable medical institution. If the institution accepts you, we will support your appointment, accompaniment, interpretation, and payment.
Q: If hospitalization is necessary, do family members need to accompany me?
A: In Japan, the medical institution’s staff (such as nurses or aides) is responsible for patients’ meals and clothing changes. Therefore, family members do not need to accompany. There are also time and number limits for visiting during hospitalization.
* (Example of a certain hospital) Visiting hours: 2 PM to 5 PM, 30 minutes to 1 hour each visit; maximum of 2 visitors at a time.
Q: Are meals arranged by family during hospitalization?
A: No, in Japan, the meals for hospitalized patients are considered an essential part of their medical care and are generally prepared by the medical institution to suit each patient’s needs. If dietary assistance is required, the medical staff will provide help. Meal costs will be included with the medical expenses.
Q: How is the hospitalization fee paid?
A: The payment methods for hospitalization fees for foreign patients may vary:
1. Payment in advance before admission
2. Payment during hospitalization
3. Payment on the day of discharge
*Our company can provide support for any of these options; feel free to contact us.
Q: After treatment in Japan, how do I follow up on my health status?
A: After you return home, the medical institution will track your health status through online consultations (some institutions may not offer this service). We will participate as your interpreter during these online consultations, ensuring your peace of mind. In addition to online consultations, if you have other questions regarding the doctor or medical institution, we will serve as a communication link to assist you in asking questions.
Q: What if family or friends want to seek medical care in Japan as well?
A: Please contact us. We will provide support for your family or friends who wish to receive medical care in Japan.
Q: I have other questions that haven’t been mentioned. Who can I contact for support?
A: Please feel free to reach out to us anytime. We are committed to providing you with the necessary support.