Japan debates long-term care insurance reforms for 2027

Japan's Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare is discussing reforms to the long-term care insurance system for the 10th business plan period starting in fiscal year 2027. Key points of debate include adjusting insurance premiums for the first category insured persons based on income and determining the criteria for individuals who must pay a 20 percent co-payment for services.

While some committee members advocate for increasing the burden on high-income earners to ensure system sustainability, others expressed caution. Concerns were raised regarding the impact of rising costs of living on elderly users and the potential for sudden increases in premiums when individuals transition from tax-exempt to taxable status. Some experts suggested that redistributing costs among the elderly alone may be insufficient, calling for a broader discussion on public funding.

At the local level, Iida City has outlined its policy direction for the 10th long-term care insurance business plan, establishing eight key pillars for its elderly welfare strategy as the local elderly population approaches its peak.