National Governors' Association requests medical system reforms

The National Governors' Association has submitted a formal request to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare regarding policies and budget proposals for fiscal year 2027. Key proposals include the development of regional medical care delivery systems and reforms to the medical insurance system.

The association requested that the national government centrally manage and provide cross-sectional data to prefectures to assist in formulating new regional medical visions. They also called for technical support, including human resource development, to enable prefectures to analyze and utilize this data effectively.

To address the financial instability of medical institutions caused by rising prices and wages, the association urged the government to implement timely and flexible countermeasures. Additionally, they requested consideration for the financial stability of National Health Insurance (NHI) as coverage expands to more employees, ensuring the system remains a reliable safety net.