r/japanlife

Just experienced an intense 6+ earthquake here in Aomori prefecture.

Hello everyone,

I’ve been going to the same gynecology clinic in Osaka, (La Quole) for more than 4 years and have always been very happy there. The doctor speaks fluent English, and we’ve always communicated in English without any problems.

This time, however, they handed out the notice that said the following:

„In accordance with guidance from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, if our clinic determines that communication in Japanese is difficult, translation devices or other language support services will be used during reception and medical consultations. A Language Support Fee will apply when a translation device is used or language support services are provided. This fee applies even when an interpreter accompanies the patient.“

Since I can speak Japanese, I decided to speak in Japanese this time.

At checkout, I was still charged the 1,000¥ language support fee. When I asked why, I was told that the doctor needed to explain some things in English. I didn’t even notice! Perhaps she used one or two English words during the consultation?!

I was really upset, but I paid and left.

Is this something that has recently become common in Japanese clinics? Is it normal and I am just overreacting? I don’t visit many other clinics, so I’m curious whether this is a new trend or something specific to this clinic.

Thank you very much!