Japan raises co-payments for some prescription drugs

📰 Analysis

The Japanese government has passed a bill that will require individuals to bear additional costs for certain prescription drugs starting in March 2027. These drugs are similar to over-the-counter (OTC) counterparts and will be subject to higher co-payments. The health ministry plans to implement this change to make healthcare more cost-effective and to encourage the use of generic or OTC alternatives. This move is expected to affect around 1,100 prescription drugs, and patients will need to pay more out-of-pocket for these medications. The exact amount of the increase has not been specified, but it is expected to be substantial. This change is part of the government's efforts to reform the healthcare system and reduce costs. It remains to be seen how this will impact patients and the pharmaceutical industry in Japan.