A rising number of self-employed individuals in Japan are reportedly opting out of the National Health Insurance (NHI) scheme. The trend appears to be driven by the desire to avoid the steadily increasing premiums, despite the potential risk of lacking proper health coverage. There are concerns that if this trend continues, it will not only impact the lives of these individuals but also possibly strain the national health system.

In Japan, NHI is an important part of social security and its non-enrollment is typically frowned upon. Health coverage is highly valued and seen as a civic duty. This news is likely to spur debate regarding the burden of premiums on low-income households and whether current policies can be adjusted to reduce the financial strain.

The issue can be compared to the ongoing debate on health insurance in the U.S., where the rising cost of health coverage is a factor leading some to opt out despite the risks. In contrast, the European Union, with its different approach to healthcare, ensures universal access to healthcare, albeit through various models across member countries.