Hospitalization is asked for special tests or for treatment that is too complicated for just visiting the hospital. National Health Insurance will cover the hospitalization.

Process of hospitalization

Application for hospitalization → notification of the date of hospitalization → complete procedures for hospitalization →go to the nurse station in the inpatient section → guided to the hospital room

There are two kinds of rooms in hospitals: a large room for more than one or two patients and a private room. The large room is for 4 to 8 patients, and in the private room for 1 or 2 patients. For using the private room, you need to pay an extra amount. The large rooms don't have an extra fee, however the private room fee depends on the number of the patients in the room. The fee varies among hospitals, but it is not inexpensive. If there are not enough rooms or if there are patients who need special attention, there may not be any private rooms available. If you wish to have a private room, you need to request it when you apply for the hospitalization.

Each hospital has a different schedule, but generally visiting hours are after the afternoon temperature check (around 2 o'clock) to about 8:00. Sometimes children are not allowed or visitors are only permitted in a meeting room. Try to avoid visiting patients in the large room with many visitors at one time in consideration of the other patients. You should use a meeting room or a waiting room for outpatients.

There is a set time for lights out in the inpatient section of hospitals. After this time you are required to stay in your bed.

Doctors' permission is needed for going out or staying out from the hospital so that the tests or treatment will not be disturbed. Some hospitals have certain forms for this permission.

Meals may be a part of the treatment, for instance, when you need limited calorie intake. Therefore, you basically need to take hospital meals. If you want to have foods other than the hospital meals, consult the nurse or doctor. If there are some foods that you cannot eat for religious or other reasons, tell them in advance.

If you are hospitalized for a long time, you will receive the bill during your stay. Before you leave, make an appointment for a check-up with your doctor.

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