Overview
Japan’s healthcare system is primarily associated with its universal coverage, where
nearly all residents are covered regardless of preexisting conditions or new medical
developments. The premiums that patients pay are based on income and the ability to
pay, and individuals have free choice to choose their healthcare provider, although
virtually everyone needs to be insured. There are eight different health insurance
systems divided into two categories, one being the National Health Insurance and the
other one being the Employee’s Health Insurance. Hospitals, by law, must be run as
non-profit organizations and be managed by physicians, not allowing for-profit
corporations to own or operate them.
As of 2017, Japan had a list of 28 medical facilities, or “international hospitals,” to which it is trying to steer inbound health travelers.11 Japan leaps to No. 3 in the current MTI thanks to its value both as a tourist destination and a healthcare hotspot. It ranks first among all destinations in both the raw Tourism and Quality of Care categories, offering an uncommon blend of location and service. Japan is in a somewhat unique position as a medical tourism destination because it can keep or improve its lofty status merely by continuing to cater to one primary group of patients.
*Based on the 2020 – 2021 Global MTI (Medical Tourism Index) Report published by the Medical Tourism Association.*
As of 2017, Japan had a list of 28 medical facilities, or “international hospitals,” to which it is trying to steer inbound health travelers.11 Japan leaps to No. 3 in the current MTI thanks to its value both as a tourist destination and a healthcare hotspot. It ranks first among all destinations in both the raw Tourism and Quality of Care categories, offering an uncommon blend of location and service. Japan is in a somewhat unique position as a medical tourism destination because it can keep or improve its lofty status merely by continuing to cater to one primary group of patients.
*Based on the 2020 – 2021 Global MTI (Medical Tourism Index) Report published by the Medical Tourism Association.*