The rollout of My Number identification cards as health insurance certificates, also known as My Number insurance cards, is set to cause significant changes in Japan’s healthcare system. With the discontinuation of traditional health insurance certificates approaching in just over two months, many public concerns remain unresolved. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida emphasizes that the move to abolish these certificates hinges on alleviating public anxiety, but it remains unclear if these concerns have truly been addressed.
Transition from Paper Certificates
The government plans to cease the issuance of paper health insurance certificates and other related forms on December 2. From that date, health insurance certification will primarily be integrated into the My Number card system. Current health insurance certificates will remain valid for up to one year after this deadline. For individuals without My Number insurance cards, local governments and health insurance associations will provide a “certificate of eligibility” that can function like a health insurance certificate without requiring an application.
Goals of Digitization
The government’s push to expand the use of My Number insurance cards aims to enhance digitization in the healthcare sector and reduce medical costs in the future. These cards enable users to access past physical examination results and records of prescribed medications. By utilizing this data, healthcare providers can tailor treatments to consider a patient’s chronic conditions, thus avoiding duplicate tests and prescriptions. Ultimately, this should lead to more accurate medical care for patients.
Current Adoption Rates
As of July, 59% of the population possesses My Number insurance cards. However, the actual usage rate at hospitals and pharmacies stands at a mere 11%. Last year, issues arose where personal information from unrelated individuals was mistakenly linked to My Number insurance cards. While these problems have been addressed, reports persist of patients facing full charges for medical bills due to identity verification issues stemming from data transmission errors.
Public Trust Issues
The government’s initial guidance in 2016 discouraged carrying My Number cards to protect personal information. Now, however, officials urge the public to carry their cards at all times, assuring that there is no risk of data leaks. This shift has understandably led to public skepticism about the reliability of My Number insurance cards, contributing to stagnant usage rates.
Government’s Approach
The abrupt announcement to abolish health insurance certificates two years ago by Digital Minister Taro Kono raised questions about the government’s handling of the transition. There appears to be a lack of consideration for the elderly and those who may not be comfortable with digital technology.
Next spring, the government intends to integrate driver’s licenses into the My Number card system, allowing existing licenses to coexist with My Number driver’s licenses. If this can be achieved, it raises the question of whether current health insurance certificates could similarly be permitted to work alongside My Number insurance cards.
Conclusion
As the deadline for the abolition of traditional health insurance certificates approaches, it is crucial for the government to address public concerns surrounding My Number insurance cards. Clear communication and support for those unfamiliar with digital systems are essential to ensure a smooth transition and regain public trust. Without these measures, the initiative to digitize health insurance may face continued resistance from the public.
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