National Health Insurance: Who Qualifies and What You Get

National Health Insurance is a public health coverage system designed to help manage the costs of medical care for those not covered by employer-based plans.

👤Who it's for

This scheme is specifically designed for individuals who do not have health insurance through a company. This includes people who are self-employed, freelancers working independently, and those who are currently unemployed. It serves as a safety net to ensure these individuals have access to necessary healthcare services.

🎁What you get

When you use medical services, the insurance provides 70% coverage for most medical and dental procedures. This means that for most standard healthcare visits, treatments, or dental work, the insurance covers the majority of the bill, leaving you responsible for the remaining portion. This system is meant to prevent medical expenses from becoming an overwhelming financial burden.

💰What it costs you

To maintain your coverage, you are required to pay monthly premiums. The specific amount you pay each month is not a fixed flat rate for everyone; instead, it is calculated based on the income you earned during the previous year. Your financial history directly determines your monthly contribution to the system.

⚠️The catch to know

The most important thing to understand is how the premium calculation works. Because your monthly payments are tied to your past earnings, your premiums can be surprisingly high if you had a good income year previously. Even if your current income has dropped, you may still be paying based on those higher earnings from the prior year.

📝How to apply

1. Visit your local municipal office to begin the registration process.
2. Present the necessary documents regarding your current employment status and your income levels.
3. Complete the registration steps required by your local government to establish your monthly premium payments.

For more information, visit https://www.mhlw.go.jp/