But we do pay about 9% of our salaries into the health system, which is mandatory. Just another tax.

Monthly visit for me costs ¥1,420 (9 USD). When I had a wisdom tooth removed at a big hospital it cost ¥7,040 (45 USD).

Basically, we pay 30% of the actual cost. But if you reach a predetermined amount (about ¥90,000) in a month, then you don’t pay any more (or something like that, there is a system, but you have to apply at the time or retrospectively and get a refund)

Also, prices are less for kids (depends on prefecture). A week in hospital for a preschool child costs about ¥4,000. Doctor visits and medicine are often free until elementary school, where each may go up to about ¥500.

Oh, and ambulances are free.