Cigna Healthcare launches culturally aligned medical support for Japanese employees in Europe

Cigna Healthcare has unveiled a dedicated health and wellbeing solution designed specifically for Japanese multinational organisations with employees based in Europe. The new Cigna Inspire Asia Expat programme provides culturally attuned healthcare access for Japanese professionals and their families living and working abroad.The tailored package offers a concierge-style experience with Japanese-speaking customer service teams, access to medical providers who understand Japanese cultural and clinical expectations, and an online portal available in Japanese. Employees can also navigate a database of approved Japanese-speaking healthcare providers, use digital wellbeing tools, and access personalised health information in their own language.With retention a high priority for international organisations and the importance of Japanese companies particularly in light of Britian joining the CPTPP agreement, bespoke health care will be a clear benefit for Japanese employees working around the world.  https://www.business.gov.uk/export-from-uk/markets/japan/

Supporting a growing Japanese presence in the UK and Europe

The launch comes as the UK continues to strengthen its position as a key destination for Japanese business investment and expatriate professionals. According to industry data, the UK now hosts the largest population of Japanese nationals in Europe, and is home to nearly 10% of all Japanese multinationals operating across the continent.While this represents a positive trend for bilateral growth, it also brings new wellbeing challenges for internationally mobile employees adjusting to European healthcare systems that differ significantly from those in Japan.

Bridging cultural gaps in healthcare

Victoria Clark, Commercial Growth Lead, Global Health Benefits Europe at Cigna Healthcare, said the new programme was designed to close that gap:“Japanese companies investing in Europe face a dual challenge: providing culturally sensitive care while navigating local regulations. In Japan, healthcare emphasises prevention and holistic wellbeing, with popular approaches such as the ‘Ningen Dock’ health exam and alternative therapies. These cultural differences can make it harder for Japanese expatriates to feel confident accessing healthcare abroad.”She added that Cigna’s Inspire Asia Expat solution helps companies deliver care that feels familiar, trusted, and easy to navigate.“Our goal is to provide culturally aware healthcare that boosts employee wellbeing and productivity, while helping employers enhance their reputation as supportive, inclusive organisations.”

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Understanding the expatriate experience

A recent Cigna Healthcare whitepaper highlights the importance of understanding cultural expectations and compliance challenges when managing Japanese employees abroad. It offers guidance for HR leaders and insurance brokers on how to promote transparent communication, encourage proactive healthcare engagement, and navigate differing systems and regulations across Europe.Japanese business culture specialist Pernille Rudlin, Managing Director of Rudlin Consulting, notes that cultural context plays a critical role in supporting employees on international assignment:“Japanese expatriates are used to structured systems and risk-averse cultures. Adapting to a more fluid and less predictable working environment can cause stress. Providing a healthcare experience that feels reassuring and familiar helps them settle in faster, perform confidently, and enjoy a positive assignment experience.”

Proven global expertise

Cigna Healthcare already supports more than 190 Japanese multinational corporations worldwide, offering native-language assistance 24/7, telehealth consultations with Japanese-speaking clinicians, and direct billing arrangements with specialist medical providers in Europe and beyond.For further insight, download Cigna Healthcare’s latest whitepaper, “Bridging the Gap: Cultural Awareness and Compliance in Healthcare for Japanese Expats in Europe” at https://go.cigna.blog/v7sbq5.

About Cigna Healthcare 

Cigna Healthcare is a health benefits provider that advocates for better health through every stage of life. We guide our customers through the health care system, empowering them with the information and insight they need to make the best choices for improving their health and vitality. Products and services are provided exclusively by or through operating subsidiaries of The Cigna Group (NYSE:CI), including Cigna Health and Life Insurance Company, Connecticut General Life Insurance Company, Evernorth Health companies or their affiliates and Express Scripts companies or their affiliates. Such products and services include an integrated suite of health services, such as medical, dental, behavioural health, pharmacy, vision, supplemental benefits, and others. Learn more at www.cignahealthcare.com

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