Overview

• The health ministry’s expert panel began a scheduled review of the long‑term care insurance system, including user co‑payments, with guidance to be compiled within the year.
• The temporary measure that softened higher co‑pays for certain people aged 75 and over ends on September 30, with higher outpatient payments taking effect from October 1.
• The ministry estimates about 3.1 million people will face higher out‑of‑pocket costs, averaging roughly ¥9,000 per year, while premiums for working‑age payers are projected to fall by about ¥24 billion annually.
• The now‑ended mitigation had capped monthly outpatient increases at ¥3,000, and the high‑cost medical expense scheme continues to limit monthly outlays to a maximum of ¥18,000.
• The June Basic Policy calls for reducing burdens on the working generation and reconsidering the 10% co‑payment principle, and the health minister has asked for public understanding and pledged clear communication.