ABSTRACT
In this chapter we consider both sides of the coin of health care finances in Japan today: spending on health and medical care-the total amount, its growth over the years, and major items of expenditure-and the sources of health care funds. The way in which a country organizes and finances her health care system reflects the values and ideals of that society and its political recognition, transmitted in policy, about what health care is supposed to achieve for its people. In looking at the financial arrangements for health and medical care in Japan we aim to present a clear and detailed picture of the mechanisms employed by government to ensure that policies are successfully implemented and acceptable to the public, and medical care providers.
