Do you folks know of any doctors or hospitals that accept Aetna insurance (international)? I have a missionary friend over there on the Island, and he can't seem to find a doctor that will accept that insurance, and the doctors insist on being paid up front for services. He then has to get reimbursed (a hassle) later for his bills. I am considering the same insurance when I move there, because it will cover me internationally, but is there a more convenient way to get care over there?

What kinds of income is counted for the national health insurance? I kind of assumed that it would be really expensive, compared to international health insurance. We plan to stay for many years, and attain permanent resident status eventually. The income support that I would receive from churches is not all counted as personal income, due to deductions and things like a work fund that is designated as used only for church things like supplies, chairs, songbooks, etc. If I knew what they counted as income, I might be able to figure out what it would cost and compare to my own insurance. Also, i wondered if it might be possible to work out a deal with a newer doctor trying to build his practice, to submit his bill directly to the insurance company. They would reimburse him, but he would have to be willing to go through the paperwork. Your opinions are greatly appreciated.

If you are looking for a hospital I would suggest Adventist Medical Center in Nishihara.  Next for insurance the NHI, Japanese National Health Insurance is based upon family income as well.  For example I can not be covered under my wifes insurance because I make too much money so I have to get my own through my town office.

Now then I pay roughly 240,000 yen per year, in off the top of my head, 8 separate payments.  It is easy to apply for, and like noted earlier here is based upon your previous years income.  If you are paying income taxes here in Japan your income is already on record at your local city or town office.

Taxes are another issue, but I will ask, have you ever filed taxes on your own or does your employers handle it for you?  Also does your employer give you pay stubs to show how much your income is. or are you being paid under the table per say.

These factors are also important in deciding whether or not to apply for NHI.  You can always pay the costs up front, get the receipts and bill your company later according to their requirements as well couldnt you?

What does your carrier recommend that you do?

To be honest I do not know the requirements for a missionary visa here.  From what you are saying though it sounds confusing at best.  What reason did immigration give you for needing to show proof of income?  Also is it possible that they want to see what kind of savings you have vs income?  Just a thought anyway.

Either way if you would like, I have a number of friends that are here on missionary visas's would you like to get in touch with them and maybe you can ask them what their experiences were.  In fact one of them is the Bishop of his own church and school here, if he didnt know he could possibly point you in the right direction.

Let me know .