Key Facts
• July 10, 2025: Japan Atopic Dermatitis Association and National Federation of Health Insurance Physicians submitted a request to the Ministry of Health.
• OTC-like drugs are prescription medications with similar components and effects to over-the-counter drugs.
• Proposed exclusion of OTC-like drugs from insurance is part of the “Basic Policy 2025” agreed upon by three political parties.
• Estimated annual burden for patients could increase by 27.3 times, reaching approximately ¥820,000.
• Moisturizers alone could cost patients an additional ¥21,840 per month if excluded from insurance.
• Concerns raised about reduced healthcare quality and increased patient financial strain.
• Doctors warn of potential delays in diagnosing serious illnesses due to reliance on self-medication.
• Exclusion could also impact child medical expense subsidies provided by local governments.
• Political parties are divided on the issue, with some supporting exclusion and others opposing it.
• Ministry of Health stated no concrete decisions have been made yet.
Summary
On July 10, 2025, the Japan Atopic Dermatitis Association and the National Federation of Health Insurance Physicians submitted a request to the Ministry of Health, opposing the proposed exclusion of OTC-like drugs from insurance coverage. These drugs, which include pain relievers and moisturizers, are currently covered but may be excluded under the “Basic Policy 2025” agreed upon by three political parties. Patients and doctors expressed concerns about increased financial burdens, with estimates showing annual costs rising by 27.3 times for some patients. Doctors also warned of potential delays in diagnosing serious illnesses due to increased reliance on self-medication. The exclusion could further impact child medical expense subsidies. While some political parties support the exclusion, others oppose it, emphasizing the need to maintain accessible healthcare. The Ministry of Health has yet to make a final decision.
