: Japan is contemplating significant policy changes to address the growing issue of unpaid medical bills by foreign visitors. These proposed measures aim to ensure that tourists are financially prepared for potential medical expenses during their stay.
Proposed Policy Changes
1. Mandatory Private Medical Insurance: The Japanese government is considering requiring all foreign visitors to possess private medical insurance upon entry. This initiative responds to data indicating that nearly 30% of tourists are uninsured, leading to substantial unpaid medical bills for hospitals .
2. Immigration Screening for Unpaid Medical Debts: Authorities may implement checks against a database of foreign individuals with outstanding medical debts in Japan. Since May 2021, immigration officials have had access to a list of defaulters—those owing 200,000 yen or more—compiled by the health ministry and shared with the Immigration Services Agency .
[ Japan’s world-class medical facilities have seen a surge in foreign patients, with Tokyo hospitals treating over 3,200 foreign emergency patients in 2023, up from 624 in 2022 . However, a significant number of these patients leave without settling their bills, imposing financial strains on medical institutions. For instance, St. Luke’s International Hospital in Tokyo reports that about 30 foreign patients annually depart without paying .
In response, the Japanese government has been promoting the purchase of travel insurance for foreigners visiting Japan. Options like the “TOKIO OMOTENASHI POLICY” allow tourists to purchase insurance within five days of arrival, covering up to 10 million yen in medical and transportation expenses .
These proposed measures aim to protect Japan’s healthcare system from financial burdens due to unpaid medical bills and ensure that foreign visitors are adequately prepared for unforeseen medical emergencies during their stay.
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