This section is for informational reference only and does not constitute medical, legal, or financial advice. Costs, insurance rules, and administrative systems may change over time — please confirm the latest details with the relevant medical institution, municipal office, or immigration authority. If you notice anything outdated or inaccurate, we welcome your feedback and will keep this updated.

Payment & Pharmacy

Paying

Clinics generally accept cash only, while hospitals usually accept credit cards — be sure to bring enough yen in cash, especially since small clinics and night emergency care often can't process card payments.

領収書をください。

りょうしゅうしょをください。

Could I get a receipt, please?

Always keep your receipt after paying — it's the only proof you'll need later when applying for a reimbursement of the difference through Kokuho (National Health Insurance) or Shaho (Employees' Health Insurance), or when short-term visitors with travel insurance file a claim after returning home.

Picking up medication at the pharmacy

Japan operates under a system of "separating prescribing from dispensing" (医薬分業) — hospitals generally don't hand you medication directly. You'll need to take your prescription (処方せん) to a pharmacy near the hospital displaying a sign for "処方せん受付" (prescriptions accepted) or "調剤薬局" (dispensing pharmacy). Medication costs are billed separately from hospital fees, so make sure you have enough cash.

The standard validity period of a prescription is 4 days from the date it's issued, but a doctor may note a longer validity period on it — if you're unsure, check with the doctor or pharmacy on the spot.

処方箋をお願いします。

しょほうせんをおねがいします。

Could you fill this prescription for me, please?