Japan long-term care insurance facility types and roles

Public long-term care insurance facilities in Japan are categorized into three distinct types, each serving different purposes and having specific admission requirements: Special Nursing Homes (Tokuyo), Geriatric Health Services Facilities (Roken), and Nursing Care Medical Facilities.

Special Nursing Homes generally require a care level of 3 or higher for admission. In contrast, Geriatric Health Services Facilities function as intermediate facilities designed to facilitate a return to home-based living rather than serving as long-term residences.

Related administrative updates include materials from the 266th Social Security Council's Subcommittee on Long-term Care Benefit Expenses, held in September 2026.