Why Japan Remains a Leading Example of Universal Health Care

Why Japan Remains a Leading Example of Universal Health Care

When we think of countries with exceptional healthcare institutions, Japan is not typically the first to come to mind. Often, nations such as Sweden and Canada come to the forefront of healthcare discussions. However, Japan has continuously been a trailblazer in terms of universal healthcare. This East Asian nation has challenged the standard of healthcare delivery that has been prevalent in the West. What makes Japan’s healthcare so special and how can the rest of the world learn from it?

The Roots of Japan’s Healthcare System

After the Second World War and Japan’s surrender, the United States took control of Japan and was tasked with rebuilding the country. The U.S. implemented several policies, and one of these was the introduction of universal health care. This decision was mostly based on the Democratic Party’s vision of modernised Japan and the health care issue’s importance for the workforce’s productivity.

The Japanese government’s response was to establish national health insurance in 1961, covering all citizens and later in 1972, some other foreign nationals residing in Japan. Even though it has four segments, including health insurance for the elderly, children, and medium-to-low-income people, the system is still inclusive and has almost universal coverage.

This system’s purpose was to ensure that all Japanese nationals had access to high-quality medical treatment, irrespective of their social status, employment type, or financial capability. This has a profound impact on the citizens’ well-being.

Taking a Holistic Approach

One of the reasons Japan’s healthcare system is so successful is that it fosters the appreciation of wellness rather than just the treatment of illness. They believe that prevention is better than cure. This way, the healthcare system adopts a holistic approach, built on the notion that medical treatment is only one part of a broader picture. The food you eat, how you live your life, and even the company you keep can all impact your overall health, so they encourage healthy living amongst the citizens.

Japan’s Technological Progression

Japan has always been synonymous with cutting-edge technology, and that is no exception when it comes to healthcare. The country prides itself on new and innovative medical technology that saves and lengthens lives. Medical startups are encouraged to set up shop in Japan, and there is a thriving and competitive market for new medical gadgets and treatment solutions.

Cost-Effective Healthcare

Japan’s healthcare system is cost-effective, which is a significant achievement given that the country’s citizens have excellent long-term health. The cost of healthcare is borne through taxes, premiums, and co-payments, and the fee is relatively low, ensuring that even low-income families stay insured. Japan spends significantly less on healthcare than other countries like the United States.

Conclusion

Japan’s healthcare system is exceptional for several reasons, including their holistic approach, cost-effectiveness, and technological progression. By encouraging healthy living policies and taking a preventive approach to healthcare, they have created a low-cost, efficient, and almost universal healthcare system. The Japanese system is an excellent example of how a healthcare system can benefit from taking a broader view of health, and they could serve as inspiration for other countries looking to improve their healthcare systems.