Generally, you receive beforehand documents describing when to start the stay, items you need to bring in, a guarantee sheet and rules to observe. You start your stay after completing a hospitalization procedure. Your doctor will see your condition to decide when you leave the hospital. More specifically the process goes as follows:

You fill in the application form for hospitalization and submit items you need to bring in (health insurance card, patient’s registration card, deposit money, etc.). If necessary you should talk with a hospital nutritionist, etc. about your diet and religious needs. If this information must be shared with other patients in your room, you could ask a nurse, etc. to tell it to them. Some hospitals/clinics may also ask you to prepare your private items such as underwear and toilet articles.

Inpatients must observe visitors’ hours and other rules and refrain from acts that could disturb others. At children’s hospitalization compounds, visitors’ hours may be restricted. When you undergo an operation, your doctor will explain about the procedure beforehand and ask you to sign to confirm your will to have the operation. If you find any unclear points, you must ask for explanation until you understand clearly. When a social worker is in place, you should consult her/him.

You pay your hospitalization fees and return home.