The healthcare system in Hiroshima, offers both public and private options for residents and foreigners alike. With a high standard of care, the city provides various hospitals and clinics to cater to different medical needs.
Japan’s Healthcare System
Japan’s healthcare system is a mix of public and private options. The public healthcare system, known as the National Health Insurance (NHI), is available to both Japanese citizens and foreigners residing in the country. Public hospitals in Hiroshima are generally recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, as they are well-equipped and staffed with experienced professionals. A visit to a public hospital in Hiroshima would typically involve a high standard of care, although language barriers may be an issue for some foreigners. Expats and digital nomads are allowed to use the public healthcare system in Japan, but many still opt for private hospitals due to shorter waiting times and more personalized care. Private hospitals are also recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries, and they often provide a more comfortable experience for patients.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Hiroshima
Some recommended hospitals and clinics in Hiroshima include:
- Hiroshima Red Cross Hospital & Atomic-bomb Survivors Hospital (public) – located in Naka-ku, Hiroshima
- Hiroshima University Hospital (public) – located in Minami-ku, Hiroshima
- Hiroshima City Asa Hospital (public) – located in Asaminami-ku, Hiroshima
- Saiseikai Hiroshima Hospital (private) – located in Asaminami-ku, Hiroshima
- Hiroshima Prefectural Hospital (public) – located in Naka-ku, Hiroshima
Emergency Services in Hiroshima
Ambulance services are available in Hiroshima. To call for an ambulance, dial 119. The response time for ambulances is generally quick, but there may be delays during peak hours or in congested areas.
Health Insurance Companies in Hiroshima
Popular private health insurers in Hiroshima include companies such as T&D Life Insurance, Nippon Life Insurance, and Dai-ichi Life Insurance. Expats and digital nomads may choose to use these local companies for their health insurance needs, but many also opt for specialized expat health insurance providers to ensure comprehensive coverage while living in Japan.
Insider Tips from Expats in Hiroshima: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Hiroshima for a few years now, and I can tell you that it’s definitely possible to live comfortably on $5,000 a month, even if you’re used to modern amenities. Of course, you might have to make some sacrifices, but overall, it’s quite doable.First, let’s talk about housing. If you want to save money, I’d recommend looking for an apartment in a more affordable neighborhood like Higashi-ku or Nishi-ku. These areas are still quite convenient, with good access to public transportation and shopping, but the rent is generally lower than in more central areas like Naka-ku or Minami-ku. You can find a decent 1LDK (one bedroom, living room, dining room, and kitchen) apartment for around ¥60,000 to ¥80,000 ($540 to $720) per month in these areas.As for utilities, you can expect to pay around ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 ($90 to $135) per month for electricity, gas, and water combined. Internet service will cost you around ¥4,000 to ¥5,000 ($36 to $45) per month, depending on the provider and plan you choose.Groceries can be a bit expensive in Japan, but if you shop at local supermarkets and cook at home most of the time, you can keep your food expenses to around ¥40,000 to ¥50,000 ($360 to $450) per month. Eating out occasionally at affordable restaurants will add another ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 ($90 to $135) to your monthly expenses.Transportation costs will vary depending on how much you travel, but if you mainly use public transportation within Hiroshima, you can expect to spend around ¥10,000 to ¥15,000 ($90 to $135) per month on bus and tram fares. If you need to travel to other cities frequently, you might want to consider getting a Japan Rail Pass, which can save you a lot of money on train fares.As for entertainment and other miscellaneous expenses, you can probably budget around ¥20,000 to ¥30,000 ($180 to $270) per month for things like going to the movies, visiting museums, and enjoying the occasional night out with friends.So, if you add up all these expenses, you’ll find that you can live quite comfortably in Hiroshima on $5,000 a month without making too many sacrifices. Of course, you might have to adjust your lifestyle a bit, but overall, I think you’ll find that it’s a great place to live with a good balance of affordability and modern amenities,” commented an expat living in Hiroshima.
