In Japan few medical institutions are capable of communicating in languages other than Japanese. You are advised to visit an institution with someone who understands Japanese, if you have difficulties in the language.
If your religious faith requires certain restrictions in your daily life or treatment you receive, or if you have any allergic symptoms, please tell that to the reception staff or nurses.

Patients must carry their health insurance card when they visit hospitals and clinics. In many cases you bear part of the medical costs incurred to your treatment. If you do not carry your health insurance card or if you have not contributed to health insurance, you will have to bear all of the medical costs, which can be very expensive.
In addition, it is favorable to carry some document to prove your identity, such as the alien registration certificate and passport. You should also carry any medicines you have been taking, if any.
About health insurance cards, please see 4 Public medical insurance, 4-2 Health insurance (3) and 4-3 National health insurance (3).

Open hours are different among institutions. But many institutions are open during weekday mornings and afternoons, open only in the morning on Saturdays and closed on Sundays and public holidays. Prior telephone confirmation is advised. For after-hour services, please see Emergencies 2-2 During holidays/nighttime.

To find institutions, you can refer to the newsletters issued by your local municipality, the internet and telephone directories. You could also ask your neighbors for information.
For people having difficulties in Japanese, local international exchange associations, etc. may be available for consultation about interpreters, institutions capable of foreign language communication, and other matters.
Telephone consultation is available in the following languages: