In-Person Care
In-person care
Visit one of our clinics or partner hospitals to see a doctor in person. We also cover what can't be done online, such as blood tests, IV drips and procedures. A medical interpreter joins you.
In-person consultations in Japanese
In Japanese, with a medical interpreter
Tests, IV drips and procedures
Links with general hospitals
Medication dispensed on site
Symptoms
Symptoms treated in person
Choose the symptom that concerns you. If you need tests or procedures that can't be done online, we can provide them in person.
You can also consult us about symptoms not listed above. If you're not sure, ask us on LINE first.
Eligibility
What in-person care can do
Some things can only be done in person, while some services vary by location.
What we can do
- Symptoms that need tests (blood tests, urine tests, etc.)
- Wound care, IV drips, injections
- Symptoms where the skin needs to be examined directly
- Symptoms where the inside of the ears or throat needs to be examined
- Vaccinations and health check-ups
- Symptoms judged difficult to handle online
- Fever or illness in children
What we refer to partner hospitals
- Conditions requiring surgery or a hospital stay
- Advanced specialist tests (availability varies by location)
- Conditions requiring emergency care, such as changes in consciousness or heavy bleeding
If surgery or a hospital stay is needed, Cotovia Counter helps with referral to a specialist at a partner hospital, accompanying you with an interpreter and admission procedures.
See partner hospitals and locationsFlow
From arrival to payment
Here's what happens at each step and what to prepare.
- 01
Ask or book on LINE
Send us your symptoms and how they've developed. If in-person care is appropriate, we'll arrange the location, date and time.
- 02
Arrival
At reception, we confirm your name and booking. Japanese-speaking staff will assist you.
- 03
Medical history
We ask about your symptoms, how they've developed, chronic conditions and allergies. You can fill in forms and talk in Japanese.
- 04
Consultation
The doctor examines you with a Japanese medical interpreter present. If tests are needed, they are explained to you before being carried out.
- 05
Tests and procedures
Blood tests, urine tests, IV drips and other procedures may be carried out. We explain what the tests involve and how long results take on the spot.
- 06
Payment and medication
We explain the breakdown of costs. If the clinic dispenses your medication, we hand it to you on the spot.
Preparation
What to bring to your visit
- Passport or residence card
- Your insurance details (policy, insurer's contact information)
- Your medication record, or the medication you currently take
- Maternal and child health handbook (for children)
- Test results or medical certificates from Japan, if you have them
- A note summarizing how your symptoms have developed
Difference
Differences from medical facilities in Japan
How you see a doctor and how payment works differ from Japan. Here are some points that often cause confusion.
| Topic | In Japan | Abroad |
|---|---|---|
| Getting care | You can just walk in on the day | Booking an appointment is usual |
| Payment | You pay only your share at the desk | Without cashless service, you pay the full amount first and claim from your insurer later |
| Medical certificate | Forms are largely standard | Forms differ by insurer |
| Specialists | You can see them directly | Some countries require a referral from a general practitioner |
If you know which documents you need, Cotovia can prepare the medical certificate. In countries where a referral to a specialist is required, Cotovia Counter arranges the visit.
Cost
About fees
Fees vary by country, location and your contract, so here we explain what they depend on.
- Consultation and test fees vary by country and location.
- If tests or procedures are carried out, those costs are added.
- Whether your insurance covers the costs depends on your insurer and policy.
- Whether cashless service is available depends on the country, location and your policy. See our insurance page for accepted insurers.
- We can tell you the expected costs before your visit. If you're concerned, just ask.
Support
If this happens
I can't make my appointment
Please contact us on LINE as soon as possible, and we'll arrange a new date and time.
I can't wait for my test results
How long results take depends on the test. If it's urgent for you, please let us know.
I'm about to run out of my prescribed medication
Please contact us before you run out. Whether to continue is decided by the doctor after a consultation.
I'm nervous about going to the hospital I was referred to
Cotovia Counter can accompany you with an interpreter and help with the procedures. Just let us know.
I'm returning to Japan
We can help you organize your test results and prescription details so you can continue care in Japan.
FAQ
FAQ
QCan I come without an appointment?
This varies by location. You may have to wait a long time, so we recommend contacting us in advance.
QCan I be seen using only Japanese?
Yes. Everything from reception to your consultation and payment is in Japanese. A Japanese medical interpreter joins your consultation with the doctor.
QCan I bring my child?
Yes. We also see children. Please bring the maternal and child health handbook.
QCan you do company health check-ups?
Yes, we offer health check-ups, and we also take inquiries from companies.
QCan I get my test results in Japanese?
We explain the results in Japanese. The format of written reports varies by location.
Locations
Get care at a location near you
See our locations in Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Thailand and Hong Kong.
Book or consult on LINE
Tell us your symptoms, and we'll recommend the best way to be seen and the right location.
Ask us on LINE