Healthcare Challenges

The Challenge of No Extra Compensation for Astigmatism-Correcting Lenses in Japan’s Cataract Surgeries

I’m an ophthalmologist, performing around 800 cataract surgeries annually. A puzzling aspect in my practice is that the reimbursement for surgery remains unchanged whether I use standard or astigmatism-correcting toric intraocular lenses, despite the latter’s higher cost. This situation seems to rely solely on the doctor’s ethical choices. Surgeons who prioritize profit over their patients’ […]

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Healthcare Costs: Same Price, Different Challenges Across Japan

Ever wonder why a visit to the doctor costs the same in bustling Tokyo as it does in the tranquil countryside? Japan’s healthcare system has a unique approach: uniform treatment fees everywhere, regardless of the region’s cost of living. This might seem fair at first glance, but it’s not that simple. Take a coffee chain

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The Under-Recognition of Myopia Control among Japanese Parents

As an eye specialist in Japan, I often encounter children at risk of developing high myopia, a condition that significantly impairs vision. I diligently advise parents on methods to curb the progression of myopia in their children. Unfortunately, I frequently observe a lack of awareness among parents about the control of myopia and its potential

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Rising Dry Eye in Teenagers in Japan: The Cost of Digital Screen Overuse

Introduction: A Growing Concern In recent years, a concerning trend has emerged among Japanese teenagers: a notable increase in cases of dry eye, a condition traditionally associated with older adults, now affecting the younger generation. This rise is largely attributable to the shift towards extensive screen time. Understanding Superficial Punctate Keratopathy In many of these

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