Welcome to Kobe University Hospital
Kobe University Hospital provides advanced medical care for overseas patients seeking diagnosis, treatment, or specialist consultation in Japan.
For Patients Living in Japan
If you currently live in Japan and are covered by the Japanese National Health Insurance or another Japanese public health insurance plan, please visit the Kobe University Hospital website for domestic patients instead of using this international patient service.
Medical Services for Overseas Patients
Explore the specialized departments and advanced medical services available to overseas patients at Kobe University Hospital.
→ Explore Our Medical Services
How to Access Our Medical Care
- Prepare your medical information.
- Contact one of our designated medical coordinators.
If you are already working with a medical coordination company of your choice, please contact IMCC in advance to discuss the application process. - Your medical coordinator will submit your inquiry and medical information to IMCC.
- IMCC will coordinate with the appropriate clinical department.
- Based on your medical needs, IMCC will recommend the most appropriate service:
- Treatment Eligibility Assessment
- Online Second Opinion
- Direct Consultation at Kobe University Hospital
- If appropriate, appointments and travel arrangements will be coordinated.
- Receive treatment at Kobe University Hospital.
Support for International Patients
IMCC provides comprehensive support throughout your medical journey, including:
- Guidance before application
- Coordination with your medical coordinator
- Communication with the appropriate clinical department
- Coordination of medical reviews and consultations
- Guidance throughout the acceptance process
- Assistance during hospital visits
- Admission support
- Follow-up communication when appropriate
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I apply from overseas?
Yes.
Overseas patients are encouraged to contact one of our designated medical coordinators, who will communicate with IMCC on your behalf.
If you are already working with another medical coordination company, please contact IMCC before submitting your application so that we can discuss the appropriate application process.
After reviewing your inquiry, IMCC will recommend the most appropriate service according to your medical needs.
Do I need a referral letter?
Not always.
A referral letter is helpful but is not required for an initial inquiry.
If available, please provide relevant medical information such as medical records, imaging studies, pathology reports, laboratory results, or a summary of your diagnosis and treatment history.
Additional documents may be requested if necessary.
Can I receive an online consultation?
Yes.
Online Second Opinion services are available for selected cases. This service allows a specialist at Kobe University Hospital to review your medical information and provide expert advice regarding your diagnosis, treatment options, or disease management before traveling to Japan.
How long does the process take?
IMCC usually reviews an initial inquiry and responds to your medical coordinator within the same day whenever possible, or within a few business days.
The time required for a Treatment Eligibility Assessment or an Online Second Opinion depends on the clinical department and the complexity of the case.
Can a family member accompany me?
Yes.
A family member or another support person may accompany the patient, subject to hospital policies and room availability.
Costs and Payment
Estimated medical costs will be provided whenever possible based on the proposed treatment plan.
Fees for Treatment Eligibility Assessments, Online Second Opinions, outpatient consultations, hospitalization, examinations, surgery, and other treatments vary depending on the clinical department and the services required.
Payment procedures may vary depending on your medical coordination company.
Living in Kobe
- Safe and comfortable city
- Easy access from Kansai International Airport and Osaka
- International community
- Rich culture and cuisine
Visa Information
Depending on your nationality and treatment plan, a visa may be required.
If a Medical Stay Visa is necessary, visa arrangements are generally arranged through a registered medical coordinator or guarantor organization in Japan.
Please consult your medical coordinator regarding visa requirements.
Contact Us
International Medical Communication Center (IMCC)
If you have not yet selected a medical coordinator, IMCC can introduce one of our designated medical coordinators.
Important Notice
Whether treatment at Kobe University Hospital is appropriate cannot be determined through email correspondence alone.
After your inquiry has been received, IMCC will review the available information and recommend the most appropriate next step.
Depending on your medical condition and the purpose of your inquiry, we may recommend one of the following fee-based services:
Treatment Eligibility Assessment
The appropriate clinical department reviews your medical information to determine whether treatment at Kobe University Hospital is medically appropriate and feasible.
Online Second Opinion
A specialist reviews your medical records and provides expert advice regarding your diagnosis, treatment options, or disease management through an online consultation.
Direct Consultation
For some patients, an in-person consultation at Kobe University Hospital may be recommended instead of a preliminary review.
Please note that payment for a Treatment Eligibility Assessment or an Online Second Opinion does not guarantee acceptance for treatment. The final decision regarding acceptance is made by the appropriate clinical department after reviewing the necessary medical information.