Health & Medical Care / H001-02

Types of medical institutions and how to choose

In Japan, where to seek care depends on your symptoms and urgency. First consider whether you need emergency help, a nearby clinic, or a larger hospital.

Last updated: October 9, 2026

Illustration of finding a medical institution

Four things to check first

Mild symptoms / first visitStart with a local clinic. Choose internal medicine, ENT, dermatology or another department according to your symptoms.

Serious symptoms / specialist treatmentA hospital or specialist outpatient clinic may be necessary. A referral letter may be required.

Nights and holidaysCheck out-of-hours clinics and emergency departments. If unsure, use your area’s emergency consultation service.

Life-threatening emergencyConsider calling 119 for unconsciousness, severe difficulty breathing, intense chest pain or heavy bleeding.

1. Where should I go? Decision flow

You feel unwell or have an injury

↓

Are there emergency signs such as unconsciousness, serious difficulty breathing, heavy bleeding or intense chest pain?

↓

Yes: emergency
Call 119 for an ambulance
Do not wait to search or book an appointment

No: not an emergency
Choose a department and check reception hours
Look for a nearby clinic or other appropriate medical facility

If unsure:Use the emergency consultation service in your area. If it feels urgent, call 119 without waiting for advice.

2. Comparing medical institutions

🏥

Clinic / doctor’s office

For mild symptoms, first visits and regular care. Often a good first place to ask for help locally.

🏨

Hospital / specialist outpatient care

For detailed tests, hospitalization and specialist treatment. A referral or appointment may be required.

🚑

Emergency department / 119

In life-threatening emergencies, do not wait for normal hours or a reservation.

Type	Suitable situations	Key points
Clinic / doctor’s office	Colds, fever, abdominal pain, skin symptoms and regular visits	Accessible locally and often suitable for initial consultation
Hospital	Tests, hospitalization or care involving several departments	Larger facilities; referral may be needed
Dentist	Toothaches, cavities, gum problems or dentures	Look for a dental clinic separately from general hospitals
Midwifery facility	Some pregnancy and childbirth support services	Available services differ by facility
Pharmacy	Collecting prescription medicines and getting medicine advice	Prescriptions are generally valid for four days, including the issue date

3. Choosing a department by symptoms

Main symptoms	Possible department
Fever, cough, fatigue	Internal medicine or fever clinic
Nose, ears, throat	Ear, nose and throat (ENT)
Skin irritation or rash	Dermatology
Eyes	Ophthalmology
Injuries, bones, joints	Orthopedics
Children	Pediatrics
Pregnancy or gynecological symptoms	Obstetrics and gynecology
Teeth	Dentistry

If unsure, you can ask an internal medicine clinic or your regular local doctor first.However, for severe symptoms or emergencies, prioritize emergency care rather than waiting for a routine visit.

4. Four steps for your first medical visit

Find a medical facility
Check the location, department, language support and consultation hours.

Check appointments
Find out whether reservations are required or walk-ins are accepted.

Reception
Present a My Number health insurance card or eligibility certificate and patient card as appropriate.

Consultation and payment
Describe symptoms, medications and allergies. Visit a pharmacy if prescribed medicine.

5. What foreign residents should check

Language supportConfirm in advance whether English, Vietnamese or other languages are available. The NABII medical network supports language-based searches.

InterpretationA medical interpreter may not always be on site. Ask the municipality or facility beforehand if needed.

Symptoms noteWrite down when symptoms started, pain location, fever, medicines, allergies and any possibility of pregnancy.

PaymentSome providers accept cash only. Check payment methods before your visit.

6. Before visiting a large hospital

Important clarification:At certain designated large hospitals, a separate additional fee may apply for initial or follow-up visits without a referral, beyond ordinary medical expenses. Exceptions, including some emergency transport situations, may apply. Confirm the hospital’s fees, referrals and booking requirements.

Large hospitals may charge extra for visits without a referral. In non-emergency cases, it is generally practical to visit a local clinic first and receive a referral when needed.

Do not use an emergency department just because it is convenient at night.Emergency patients take priority. For less urgent conditions, use regular appointments or appropriate out-of-hours clinics.

8. Notes by residence and work situation

Technical interns / Specified Skilled WorkersIf unsure where to seek care, your employer, supervising organization or registered support organization may be able to advise on nearby facilities or interpreting support.

International studentsYour school health office, student affairs office or international student support desk may recommend nearby hospitals.

EmployeesAsk your company’s health office or HR team whether there are designated facilities or health-check services.

Self-employed / dependentsYou may often need to search using the NABII network or local government information.

9. Check official sources

Ministry of Health: NABII Medical Information Network Ministry of Health: Medical Function Information System

Information checked: October 9, 2026. Confirm actual reception procedures, hours, referral requirements and language support with each medical institution.

Types of Medical Facilities