Japan Ministry of Health updates disability welfare and insurance guidelines

The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare has issued updates regarding disability welfare services and the application of assistive device benefits in relation to nursing care insurance.

Regarding heavy visitation nursing care, service fee unit revisions following the 2024 and 2026 updates have been detailed. These changes include adjustments to basic remuneration for various service durations and updates to the treatment improvement addition rates. The revisions also expand coverage for individuals in hospitals or residential facilities who require special communication support.

Additionally, the Ministry clarified the relationship between the assistive device benefit system under the Act on the Comprehensive Support for the Daily and Social Life of Persons with Disabilities and the welfare equipment benefits under the Long-Term Care Insurance Act. While nursing care insurance generally takes precedence for standard products like wheelchairs and walkers, the Ministry emphasized that individuals may still qualify for specialized assistive devices under disability support laws if medical professionals determine that customized, non-standard equipment is necessary for their specific physical condition.

The Ministry urged local governments and care professionals to better communicate these options to users and to review past assistive device usage history to ensure appropriate support is provided.