Having two health insurance plans in Japan is not illegal, but it can lead to problems. In this article, we will explain why you might have two health insurance cards, the risks of double enrollment, and what to do if you find yourself in this situation.
Why you might have two health insurance cards
There are a few reasons why you might have two health insurance cards in Japan. For example, you might:
- Work for two or more companies that offer health insurance.
- Be a dependent on a family member’s health insurance, but also have a job that offers health insurance.
- Have recently moved to Japan and not yet canceled your old health insurance plan.
The risks of double enrollment
Even if you have two health insurance cards, you can still see a doctor as usual. However, there are a few risks associated with double enrollment:
- You could be charged twice for your health insurance premiums.
- You could be billed for medical expenses later on.
- You could be ineligible for certain benefits, such as long-term care insurance.
What to do if you have two health insurance cards
If you have two health insurance cards, it’s important to take action as soon as possible. Here are the steps you need to take:
- Identify which health insurance plan is your primary plan. Your primary plan is the plan that will pay for your medical expenses first.
- Contact the insurance company of your primary plan and let them know that you have a second health insurance plan. They will be able to tell you what you need to do to cancel your secondary plan.
- If you have already seen a doctor, you may need to file a claim with your primary plan to get reimbursed for your medical expenses.
It’s important to take action as soon as possible if you have two health insurance cards. By following these steps, you can avoid any problems and ensure that you are properly covered.
Here are some additional tips to keep in mind:
- If you are not sure which health insurance plan is your primary plan, you can contact the Japan Pension Service or the Pension Office.
- If you are still enrolled in your old health insurance plan from your home country, you may need to cancel that plan before you can enroll in a health insurance plan in Japan.
- If you are unsure about what to do, you can always consult with a qualified immigration attorney or a certified public accountant.
I hope this article has been helpful. If you have any questions, please feel free to leave a comment below.
