A medical certificate is a formal document from the treating physician confirming the reason for your visit and, where relevant, the diagnosis. Most travel insurers ask for one alongside a receipt when you file a claim, and both can be issued in English after an online consultation, included in the flat consultation fee.
What a medical certificate actually documents
A medical certificate typically records the diagnosis or reason for the visit, the date of the consultation, and the name and credentials of the treating physician. It's a clinical statement, not a payment record — insurers often need it specifically to confirm that a visit was medically necessary, for example when a claim involves trip interruption or a missed flight due to illness.
Medical certificate vs. receipt: what's the difference
A receipt is proof of payment — it shows the amount charged and confirms you paid for medical services. A medical certificate is a clinical document explaining what the visit was for. Most travel insurance claims need both: the receipt to substantiate the cost, and the certificate to substantiate that the treatment was medically appropriate.
Why English documents matter for a travel insurance claim
International travel insurance claims are usually processed by an insurer based outside Japan. A certificate and receipt issued in English from the outset avoids a separate translation step and reduces the chance of a claim being delayed while the insurer requests clarification. If you're unsure what your policy requires, it's worth checking with your insurer directly — requirements vary by provider.
How to get one after an online consultation
An English medical certificate and an itemized receipt are included automatically in every consultation — there's no separate request or additional fee. If your insurer needs a specific format or additional detail, mention it when you book or at the start of the consultation, so it can be reflected in the document.
What it costs
| Item | Included? |
|---|---|
| Video consultation with a Japan-licensed physician | Yes |
| English medical certificate | Yes — no extra charge |
| Itemized English receipt | Yes — no extra charge |
| Prescription sent to a pharmacy near you | Yes, if prescribed |
Total consultation fee: ¥33,000, flat and tax-included. There's no separate document fee — the certificate and receipt are part of every visit, not an add-on.
How quickly can I get the certificate?
It's prepared as part of the same visit and sent to you by email — there's no separate appointment or waiting period for the document itself.
Will my insurer accept a certificate from an online consultation?
Most insurers accept documentation from a licensed physician regardless of whether the visit was in person or by video, but telehealth coverage and document requirements vary by provider — check your policy or contact your insurer if you're unsure.
Is there an extra charge for the certificate?
No. It's included in the ¥33,000 flat consultation fee, along with the itemized receipt.
Can the certificate be issued in a specific format my insurer requires?
Let us know what your insurer needs when you book or at the start of your consultation, and we'll do our best to reflect it in the document.
