Lesson 49 Healthcare System
Topic Question: How does the Japanese healthcare system work, and how is it funded?
No. 1: Introduction– First, try answering the question yourself.
The instructor will provide advice on vocabulary, grammar, and expression corrections.
Sample Answer – Let’s read aloud. Instructor will check your pronunciation and accent.
The Japanese healthcare system is characterized by universal coverage, ensuring that all residents have access to healthcare services. It operates under a social insurance model, where the system is funded through premiums shared by employers, employees, and the government. Patients are free to choose their healthcare providers and can visit specialists without the need for a referral. This system aims to provide high-quality, accessible, and affordable healthcare services to its population. Health insurance in Japan is divided into two main categories: Employee Health Insurance for those employed and their families, and the National Health Insurance for self-employed, unemployed, and retired individuals. The system is known for its efficiency, with relatively low healthcare costs compared to other developed countries, yet achieving high health outcomes. Additionally, the government plays a significant role in regulating healthcare costs by setting prices for medical services and medications to prevent inflation.
No. 2: Vocabulary Building－ 5 Words to Learn and Their Meanings
Pronounce the Words Correctly (Pronunciation Training) + Make Sentences Using the Words Instantly
- Universal coverage (全員保険, zen’in hoken): A health care system where all individuals have health coverage.
“Japan’s healthcare system is notable for its universal coverage, ensuring every resident has access to medical care.”
- Social insurance model (社会保険制度, shakai hoken seido): A system where healthcare is funded through contributions from employees, employers, and the government.
“The Japanese healthcare system operates on a social insurance model, with costs shared among all stakeholders.”
- Premiums (保険料, hokenryō): Payments made to insurance companies to provide coverage.
“Healthcare funding in Japan relies on premiums collected from the insured parties and their employers.”
- Efficiency (効率性, kōritsu-sei): The ability to accomplish something with the least waste of time and effort.
“The efficiency of the Japanese healthcare system is demonstrated by its ability to deliver high-quality care at controlled costs.”
- Regulate (規制する, kisei suru): To control or maintain the rate or speed of something so that it operates properly.
“The government regulates healthcare costs in Japan, ensuring medical services and medications remain affordable.”
No. 3: Key Idiom and Example Sentences
“In good health” – This phrase is used to describe someone’s well-being or the absence of illness.
“The Japanese healthcare system aims to keep the nation ‘in good health’ through its comprehensive services and preventive care measures.”
“Thanks to universal coverage, residents of Japan can maintain ‘in good health’ without the burden of excessive medical costs.”
No. 4: Discussion and Exchange of Opinions on the Sample Answer
Instructor: What are the strengths and challenges of the Japanese healthcare system? How does it compare to the healthcare systems in other countries?
Student: [Opinions of students]
No. 5: Free Discussion on the Topic
Let’s delve deeper into the implications of Japan’s aging population on its healthcare system. How is the system adapting to the increased demand for elderly care? Discuss the potential for technological innovations, such as telemedicine and AI, to improve efficiency and accessibility in healthcare. Additionally, explore the role of preventive care and health education in sustaining the health of the population. How do cultural attitudes towards health and wellness contribute to the overall effectiveness of the healthcare system? What lessons can other countries learn fro
