Towards universal health coverage in the context of population ageing: a narrative review on the implications from the long-term care system in Japan.

Abstract

The two important elements of universal health coverage-(1) enabling everyone to access the necessary health services and (2) providing financial protection from catastrophic health spending-are vital for not only healthcare but also long-term care in the context of population ageing. In this review, we provide an overview of the public long-term care system in Japan to help other countries that are experiencing (or are expected to experience) problems associated with population ageing. Japan's approach to long-term care may not be universally generalisable, given the differences in population/geographical sizes, socioeconomic development, population ageing, and cultures across countries. However, the challenges faced by older people may be common. Japan's long-term care system has several challenges, including financing, labour force shortages, support for people with dementia, an integrated continuum of healthcare and long-term care, and utilising services outside the purview of insurance coverage. We have provided the government's actions and potential directions to address these challenges.