The healthcare system in Okinawa, is a blend of public and private services, providing comprehensive care to both residents and foreigners. The system is known for its efficiency and high standards, ensuring that everyone has access to quality healthcare.
Japan’s Healthcare System
Japan’s healthcare system is a mix of public and private services. The public healthcare system, known as the National Health Insurance (NHI), is used by both residents and foreigners, including expats and digital nomads. Public hospitals in Okinawa are recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries due to their high standards of care and state-of-the-art facilities. The experience at a public hospital in Okinawa is generally positive, with efficient services and professional staff. While expats are allowed to use the public healthcare system, many prefer private hospitals due to shorter wait times and the availability of English-speaking staff. Private hospitals are also recommended for serious medical emergencies and major surgeries. The experience at a private hospital in Okinawa is similar to that at a public hospital, with the added benefit of more personalized care.
Hospitals and Clinics for Expats in Okinawa
There are several hospitals and clinics in Okinawa that are recommended for expats. These include:
- Chubu Tokushukai Hospital (Private, located in Okinawa City)
- Okinawa Red Cross Hospital (Public, located in Naha)
- Naha City Hospital (Public, located in Naha)
- Medicover Hospital (Private, specializes in cardiology, located in Naha)
Emergency Services in Okinawa
Okinawa has a reliable ambulance service that can be accessed by dialing 119. The response time is generally quick, although there may be occasional delays during peak times or in remote areas.
Health Insurance Companies in Okinawa
There are several popular private health insurance companies in Okinawa, including T&D Life Group, Dai-ichi Life Insurance, and Meiji Yasuda Life Insurance. These companies offer a range of plans to suit different needs and budgets. While some expats and digital nomads choose to use these local companies, many prefer to use specialized expat health insurance providers due to their international coverage and English-language services.
Insider Tips from Expats in Okinawa: Health Care
“I’ve been living in Okinawa for a few years now and I can tell you that living on $5,000 a month is definitely doable, even with a taste for modern amenities. However, you’ll need to be smart about your spending. Rent is one of the biggest expenses. If you want to live in a more upscale neighborhood like Onna or Yomitan, you could easily spend $2,000 or more on rent for a modern, Western-style apartment. But if you’re willing to live in a more local neighborhood like Uruma or Ginowan, you can find a nice place for around $1,000 or less. Food can also be expensive, especially if you eat out a lot or buy imported goods. But if you shop at local markets and cook at home, you can save a lot. Utilities are another big expense. Electricity is particularly expensive in Okinawa, especially in the summer when you’re running the air conditioning all the time. But if you’re mindful about turning off lights and appliances when you’re not using them, you can keep your bills down. Transportation is another cost to consider. Owning a car in Okinawa can be expensive, with costs for insurance, gas, and maintenance. But public transportation is pretty good and much cheaper. Plus, Okinawa is a great place for biking, so you could save a lot by getting a bike and using it for short trips. As for entertainment, there are plenty of free or low-cost activities in Okinawa. The beaches are free and there are lots of beautiful parks and hiking trails. There are also lots of cultural events and festivals that are free or very cheap to attend. So, while $5,000 a month might not allow you to live a life of luxury in Okinawa, it’s definitely enough to live comfortably if you’re smart about your spending. And the great thing about Okinawa is that the best things in life here are free or very cheap. The natural beauty, the culture, the community – those are the things that make living here truly special,” commented an expat living in Okinawa.
