Navigating Your Health Insurance: What to Do When Your Sagamihara City National Health Insurance Card Expires
Sagamihara City has issued important guidance for residents whose National Health Insurance (Kokumin Kenko Hoken) insurance cards, or qualification confirmation certificates (Shikaku Kakunin Sho), are nearing or have passed their expiration date. With an effective date of July 31, 2025, the city is proactively informing its citizens about the necessary steps to ensure continuous health coverage.
Understanding the Importance of a Valid Insurance Card
Possessing a valid National Health Insurance card is crucial for accessing medical services in Japan. It serves as proof of your entitlement to subsidized healthcare, meaning you will only be responsible for a portion of the medical costs incurred. Without a current card, you may be required to pay the full amount upfront at healthcare facilities.
What to Do If Your Insurance Card Has Expired
The primary recommendation from Sagamihara City is to renew your insurance card before its expiration date. While the provided link specifically addresses what to do after expiration, proactive renewal is always the smoothest path to maintaining uninterrupted coverage.
However, should you find yourself with an expired insurance card, the City of Sagamihara advises that new insurance cards will be mailed automatically. This mailing process is typically conducted approximately one month prior to the expiration of the current card. Therefore, if your card has expired, it is highly probable that your new card is either on its way or has already been sent.
What If You Haven’t Received Your New Card?
If your insurance card has expired and you have not received your new one by the expected time, it is essential to contact the relevant department within Sagamihara City Hall. The most likely cause for non-receipt could be an issue with your registered address or a delay in the postal service.
Where to Seek Assistance
For inquiries regarding the renewal or delivery of your National Health Insurance card, or if you have not received your new card after your previous one has expired, please contact:
- Sagamihara City Hall – Health Insurance Division (Kokuho Ka)
- It is advisable to have your resident registration information readily available when you call.
Key Takeaways for Sagamihara City Residents:
- Check Your Expiration Date: Be aware of the expiration date printed on your current National Health Insurance card.
- Automatic Renewal: New insurance cards are typically mailed automatically by Sagamihara City about one month before your current card expires.
- Contact if Unreceived: If your card has expired and you have not received your new card, do not delay in contacting the Health Insurance Division at Sagamihara City Hall.
- Maintain Continuous Coverage: Prompt action ensures you continue to have seamless access to essential healthcare services.
Sagamihara City’s commitment to informing residents about these important administrative processes helps ensure that everyone can maintain their health coverage without disruption. By staying informed and taking the necessary steps, residents can navigate their health insurance needs with confidence.
【国保・保険証】保険証（又は資格確認書）の有効期限が切れてしまいましたが、どうすればいいですか。
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