Patient contribution increases by next year in Japan
This article was originally published in Clinica
Executive Summary
Japan's proposed increases in patient co-payments for medical care (see Clinica No 735, p 5) could come into effect early next year if parliament approves them in its session this month. The changes form part of a new plan for healthcare contributions negotiated by the ruling Liberal Democrat party and the smaller Social Democrats and New Party Sakigake. The minor parties agreed to support the plan on the condition that Japan's entire medical insurance system is reviewed this year.