How to Use Your Insurance in Japan (Overview)
Compare common insurance situations in Japan and choose the next guide that best matches your coverage.
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Choose the guide closest to your situation
Each card summarizes who to contact first, whether referrals are commonly needed, who usually pays first, and what problems to watch for.
TRICARE Prime
Wait for referral approval and schedule specialist care
PCM / Naval Hospital / TRICARE Overseas
Usually yes
TRICARE
Common issue: Referral delays
TRICARE Select
Submit claim if applicable
Clinic or TRICARE Overseas
Usually no for clinics
Usually you
Common issue: Coverage confusion
TRICARE For Life
Submit reimbursement paperwork if needed
Clinic or TRICARE Overseas
Usually no for clinics
Usually you
Common issue: Overseas reimbursement rules
FEHB
Submit receipt to insurance if required
FEHB plan, then clinic
Usually no for clinics
Usually you
Common issue: Claims process
NHI
Nothing
Any clinic
Usually no for clinics
You (~30%)
Common issue: Finding English-speaking providers
Employee Insurance
Nothing
Any clinic
Usually no for clinics
You (~30%)
Common issue: Understanding referrals
Travel & International Insurance
Direct billing or reimbursement
Insurance company or clinic
Usually no for clinics
Depends on policy
Common issue: Network confusion
Medicare
Submit paperwork if eligible
Any clinic
Usually no for clinics
Usually you
Common issue: Limited overseas coverage
Self-Pay
Nothing
Any clinic
Usually no for clinics
You
Common issue: Cost uncertainty
I Don’t Know My Insurance
Identify coverage first
Okinawa International Clinic
Depends
Depends
Common issue: Not knowing where to start
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