Pediatricians treat children up to 15 years of age. They can provide infant checkups and vaccination as well. In most cases, your baby should go to a pediatric clinic, not a big hospital, for primary care.
Japanese clinics are divided by their specialties (See Japanese Clinics for details) and patients visit a particular specialist clinic depending on their symptoms.
With pediatricians, this is not necessary. Your pediatrician can treat most concerns your child might have. If necessary your pediatrician will refer you to a specialist.
Soon after the birth of your baby, it is recommended to find a local pediatrician who can regularly provide care for your infant.
JHI can help you find pediatric clinics that are available in your city, and make arrangements for you to visit one. We can also create a personalized information sheet and send it to you. Contact us for more information.
Some pediatricians require an appointment while others do not. For vaccinations and infant checkups the process of visiting a pediatrician is the same as visiting any other doctor. Please refer to our Japanese Clinics page for more information.
Costs
Children that are enrolled in Japanese health insurance, such as National Health Insurance or Social Health Insurance, should be eligible for the Free Medical Care Certificate for Infants (Nyuyouji Iryoushou 乳幼児医療証 にゅうようじいりょうしょう) issued by your local ward or city. With this certificate, your baby can receive treatment and medication for free. Vaccinations and baby checkups are not covered by insurance but your ward or city office gives you coupons to cover these costs.
JHI can assist you in obtaining the certificate if you haven’t received one, and help you find out if you are entitled to the certificate if you are unsure. Contact us for details.
Case Study
When my child is sick, where should I go? Also I need information about baby check-ups and vaccinations.
We will find an English-speaking pediatrician in your neighborhood. With a Child Medical Care Certificate, your child’s medical expenses are free. Infant check-ups and vaccination information come from your local municipal office and most services are free. We can help you obtain the certificate, necessary information and make arrangements for you.