The Japanese health care system, funded chiefly by the national health insurance scheme, has agreed to raise medical fees by a significant 2.22%. This decision comes after considerations of various stakeholders and will be implemented nationwide. The increase in fees is expected to have far-reaching repercussions on the health economy, affecting medical institutions, practitioners, and patients alike.
In Japan, the cost of medical care is intricately tied to the average household income and the cost of living. With the increase in medical fees, household expenditures may rise, particularly for people with recurrent health needs. This news is significant given Japan's aging population and the increase in the burden of chronic diseases. The negotiation and implementation of such changes are closely monitored by the citizens due to its direct impact on their livelihood.
In the US or EU, changes in medical costs are major political and economic issues as well. Particularly in the US, where the health care system is largely private, discussions on cost increments often evoke extensive debate. In EU, which has many countries having national health systems similar to Japan, we observe similar concerns over the rising cost of healthcare as well.