National Health Insurance in Japan
Japan’s healthcare system is renowned for its universal public health insurance coverage, ensuring that all citizens have access to necessary medical treatments. Under this system, a wide array of medical services, including surgeries, medications, and hospital stays, are covered, reducing the financial burden on patients. This comprehensive coverage is a cornerstone of Japan’s commitment to public health.
New Coverage for Proton Therapy
In a significant development, Japan’s Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare announced in February 2024 that starting in June, proton therapy for early-stage lung cancer (stages I-IIA) will be covered under national health insurance. This expands on previous coverage, which began in 2016 for pediatric tumors and extended to more conditions in 2018 and 2022.
Insurance Approval Process
In Japan, treatments must first be approved as advanced medical care, which patients pay out-of-pocket for all the sum, before they can be considered for public insurance coverage. This approval process ensures that only proven safe and effective treatments are covered.
The decision to include early-stage lung cancer for proton therapy in Japan’s health insurance was based on evidence showing improved survival rates compared to existing treatments. While coverage for esophageal cancer was deferred, ongoing research may lead to future inclusion.
