経済｜診療報酬引き上げ30年ぶりの決定 / Economy | Decision to Raise Medical Fees for the First Time in 30 Years

Summary

The government announced that it is in the final stages of adjusting the increase in the “main body” of medical fees, which includes personnel costs for healthcare workers, by 3.09% for the next fiscal year.

This increase is the first in 30 years and is expected to ensure the sustainability of the healthcare insurance system. Currently, 67.2% of hospitals are operating at a loss, highlighting the financial difficulties facing the medical sector.

Dialogue

This dialogue is fictional and based on the article.

Log: I heard that medical fees are going to be increased recently. Do you know the details?
Chako: Yeah, it’s going up by 3.09%! It’s the first increase in 30 years!
Log: Really? Does that have to do with the labor costs of healthcare workers?
Chako: Yeah, it seems like it! But a lot of hospitals are still operating at a loss.
Navi: That’s correct. Currently, 67.2% of hospitals are in the red, which is why the increase in medical fees is considered necessary.
Log: I see, so it’s a decision made with the economic hardships in mind.
Chako: I hope healthcare workers get properly compensated!

Admin’s Note

The increase in medical fees for the first time in 30 years represents a significant change in the healthcare system. While it is expected that the rising labor costs for healthcare professionals will lead to improved service quality, there is concern about the current situation where many hospitals are operating at a loss. We need to continue paying attention to the sustainability of the healthcare sector. In particular, as Chako mentioned, creating an environment where healthcare workers are fairly valued will contribute to the overall improvement of the healthcare system.