Foreign residents in Japan face a significant change in how they access healthcare services, as the country transitions to mandatory MyNumber health insurance cards (マイナ保険証) starting December 2, 2024. According to NHK, all traditional health insurance cards have reached their expiration dates, and medical facilities and pharmacies are now required to use the integrated MyNumber system as the standard method for processing patient information. The MyNumber health insurance card combines Japan's national identification system with health insurance credentials into a single digital card. This transition represents one of the most substantial changes to Japan's healthcare administration in recent years, affecting all residents, including the approximately 3 million foreign nationals living in the country. What This Means for Expats Starting December 2, when visiting hospitals, clinics, or pharmacies, patients are expected to present their MyNumber card rather than the traditional paper health insurance card. Medical facilities will use card readers to verify insurance eligibility and access relevant medical history, streamlining the registration process. However, the transition has not been without challenges. According to NHK, adoption rates remain lower than anticipated, prompting the government to implement transitional measures to prevent disruption to healthcare services. The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has acknowledged these concerns and established accommodations for those who have not yet obtained their MyNumber cards. Transitional Period and Alternatives Recognizing that not all residents have transitioned to the new system, authorities have implemented a grace period. Traditional health insurance cards will continue to be accepted at medical facilities until the end of March 2025, NHK reports. This four-month window provides additional time for residents to obtain and activate their MyNumber cards without losing access to healthcare services. For individuals who do not possess a MyNumber card, temporary measures are available. Patients can request a certificate of eligibility from their health insurance provider, which serves as proof of coverage during the transition period. Foreign residents should contact their employer's human resources department or their local municipal office to obtain these certificates if needed. Potential Challenges at Medical Facilities Healthcare providers have expressed concerns about potential confusion during the transition period. NHK reports that medical facilities anticipate complications as they manage multiple systems simultaneously—processing both MyNumber cards and traditional insurance cards while also handling special cases and certificates. Expats may experience longer wait times at reception desks, particularly in the initial weeks of December, as staff adapt to new procedures and assist patients unfamiliar with the system. Medical facilities are working to educate patients about the changes, but language barriers may pose additional challenges for non-Japanese speakers. Steps for Foreign Residents Expats who have not yet obtained their MyNumber card should prioritize doing so before the March 2025 deadline. The application process requires visiting your local municipal office with your residence card, passport, and a recent photograph. Processing typically takes several weeks, so early application is advisable. For those who already possess a MyNumber card, ensure it is properly linked to your health insurance. This connection should happen automatically when you enroll in the national health insurance system or through employer-sponsored insurance, but verification with your insurance provider is recommended. Foreign residents should also inform family members, particularly elderly relatives or dependents who may be less familiar with digital systems, about these changes and assist them in preparing for medical visits. Looking Ahead While the transition presents short-term challenges, the integrated system promises long-term benefits, including easier access to medical records, reduced paperwork, and more efficient prescription management. As Japan continues digitalizing administrative services, familiarity with the MyNumber system will become increasingly important for foreign residents navigating daily life in the country. For now, expats should ensure they understand their options during this transitional period and take proactive steps to avoid disruption to their healthcare access.