Living Guide for Foreign Nationals in Iwate

Going to the Hospital

	Go to the reception desk and, if it is your first visit tell the receptionist so, then tell her your symptoms and hand in your health insurance card ( >> Health Insurance System).
	Wait to be called in waiting room. Often you will be asked to take your temperature while you are waiting.
	The doctor will ask you various questions like, what are your symptoms, how long have you had them, and do you have any idea what has caused them? You will then undergo a series of simple tests including listening to your chest with a stethoscope, your blood pressure and pulse will be measured. If necessary you may be asked to take a blood test, have an X-ray, ultra-sound test (echography) or a urine test.
	Depending on your condition you may be given an injection or a compress to apply. If the diagnosis needs to wait for the results of further tests you will be asked to come back for another consultation.
	You will pay for the consultation and any treatment at the reception desk, where your health insurance card will be returned. You will also be issued with a consultation card. (On any future visits to the hospital you will only need to give in this consultation card, not your health insurance card.) If necessary you will be given a prescription for medicines. You should take this to the nearest pharmacy to receive your medicine. (Some hospitals dispense their own medicines.)