Going to Japan for treatment
The health system is primarily domestic, so outside a few centres with international departments the language barrier is substantial. This is the first thing to solve.
Where it usually goes wrong here
The common snag is time: from sending records to getting a date can take far longer than expected.
Documents usually expected
Translated records and original imaging. Scheduling usually takes time, so plan well ahead.
How payment usually works
Payment in advance is common for foreign patients. Ask which payment methods are accepted, as practices differ from Vietnam.
The person going with you
An accompanying person is advisable, with a longer stay factored in.
Before you come home
Request translated discharge records — do not wait until you are home, when context for accurate translation is lost.
Verify these yourself
- Current entry requirements
- Whether the facility accepts foreign patients, and through which channel
- Whether medical interpreting is available
- How long scheduling typically takes
Entry requirements come from the representative office, not from a web page. Costs come from the facility in writing, not from a conversation.
Other destinations
the full checklist for going abroad › · print a health card in English › · add up the budget ›