76% of Japanese economic experts support increasing the out-of-pocket medical expense ratio
Published
According to a survey conducted by the Japan Center for Economic Research, 76% of Japanese economic experts are in favor of expanding the scope of those subject to a 30% out-of-pocket medical expense ratio. This has become a critical debate for maintaining the healthcare system in an increasingly aging Japan.
Currently, Japan's healthcare system sets out-of-pocket ratios between 10% and 30% depending on age and income. However, medical costs are increasing year by year due to the aging population, and the burden on the working generation has become a major issue. Experts believe that in order to maintain the system for the future, more people need to share the burden.
Many of the experts who responded to the survey pointed out that curbing medical costs and stabilizing the social security system are urgent priorities. In particular, there was a prominent view that to reduce the burden on the working generation and create a sustainable healthcare system, it is necessary to review the contribution ratios for individuals such as elderly people with a certain level of income.
On the other hand, there are concerns about the impact of increased costs on low-income individuals. Since raising medical expenses is an issue that directly affects the lives of citizens, the government needs to proceed with careful deliberation.
Many citizens are watching to see how the government will proceed with healthcare system reform in the future. How to balance the stability of social security with the livelihoods of the people will be a major focus moving forward.
Sources: 公益社団法人 日本経済研究センター
More Japan news
- Toyota, Nissan and Honda to Hold Engineer Event in Fiscal 2026 Under the Theme of “AI”
- HTC NIPPON Promotes Business Use of the Smart Glasses "VIVE Eagle" as Sponsor of Remote Guidance App Exhibition
- Defense-Related ETF "GX Defense Tech" Publishes Stock Price Information; Detailed News Not Available
- U.S. Ambassador to South Korea Marks 100 Days in Office, Stresses the Importance of Protecting Trust Between South Korea and the United States
- South Korean National Assembly Passes Special Counsel Act to Investigate "Fabricated Indictments"
- Former Professor Embroiled in Stem Cell Paper Fabrication Scandal Acquires UAE Citizenship, Loses South Korean Nationality
- Foreign Minister Motegi Holds Talks with Foreign Ministers of France, Italy and the UK, Calls for Appropriate Response on EU Exclusion of Japanese-Made EVs from Preferential Treatment
- Health Drink Market in Japan Set to Grow, Driven by Aging Population and Health Consciousness