Japan Press Weekly

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2018 July 11 - 17 [SOCIAL ISSUES]

JCP influences Health Ministry to exempt heavy rain victims from medical fees

In response to a proposal made by the Japanese Communist Party, as part of support measures for victims of the recent heavy rain in western Japan, the Health Ministry on July 11 decided to reduce or exempt the payment of fees for medical and nursing-care services.

The ministry’s measures will cover the disaster victims living in the eight hardest-hit prefectures who are covered by the national health insurance. The eight prefectures are Kochi, Tottori, Hiroshima, Okayama, Kyoto, Hyogo, Ehime, and Gifu. Victims who suffer severe damage from the record rainfall can apply for the reduction or exemption. To be specific, their houses had to have been totally or partially destroyed or the main earner of their families was killed, was seriously injured, went missing, or lost the circumstances needed to earn a living. The ministry does not set requirements concerning applicants’ income levels and whether the applicants have property or not.

According to the Health Ministry, eligible persons will be able to receive the reduction of exemption of fees for medical and nursing-care services. They can obtain a discount even if they go medical facilities outside their prefecture. Currently, the ministry plans to continue financial support measures until October.

The Health Ministry expressed its intention to reduce or exempt the payment of fees for welfare services available to the disabled.

Past related article:
> LDP decides to discuss casino bill instead of support measures for heavy rainfall victims [July 10, 2018]