#Japan #Health Services #Bunkyo, Tokyo #Seed Planning #Medical MaaS

Understanding Medical MaaS Services in Japan

In recent years, Japan has seen a rise in initiatives related to Mobility as a Service (MaaS), particularly in the medical sector. With technology such as IoT and AI paving the way for innovative transportation solutions, Medical MaaS has redefined how patients access healthcare services. This article delves into a recent comprehensive study by Seed Planning Inc., which explores the state of Medical MaaS services in Japan and predicts a growing market.

Background and Objectives of the Study

As Japan grapples with its declining population and an increasingly aging society, the need for efficient transportation solutions becomes paramount. Medical MaaS combines traditional transportation with healthcare services, offering options like online medical consultations and demand-responsive transport systems for patients struggling to manage travel due to age or health constraints.

The study highlights an increasing interest in Medical MaaS, with many municipalities launching pilot projects. The Japanese government is also actively developing policies to support this initiative, thus facilitating the introduction of innovative technologies like autonomous vehicles and drones into the healthcare landscape.

Key Findings from the Investigation

The Seed Planning investigation involved interviews with stakeholders including businesses, local government officials, and healthcare professionals. The research categorizes the Medical MaaS services into four main types:
1. Online Consultation Services (utilizing vehicles)
2. Health Check Services (utilizing vehicles)
3. Transportation Assistance for Medical Visits
4. Delivery of Medicines (using drones and other technologies)

From this categorization, the research also identified the current trends in Medical MaaS services across 26 municipalities. Notably, it predicted that by 2025, the domestic market for Medical MaaS services in Japan will reach 1.76 billion yen, with projections suggesting it could expand to approximately 17.2 billion yen by 2035.

Specific Predictions for the Market Growth

The growth potential of Medical MaaS appears substantial, driven by Japan's demographic changes and the anticipated easing of regulations affecting healthcare transportation services. The study forecasts that by 2035:

• - Online consultation services will reach around 6.8 billion yen
• - Health check services will grow to approximately 3.6 billion yen
• - Support for medical transportation will be about 2.8 billion yen
• - Medicine delivery services could approach 4 billion yen

Collectively, these services will characterize a robust market for Medical MaaS operations.

Implications for the Future of Healthcare

Medical MaaS represents a promising avenue for ensuring that the aging population in Japan can access necessary healthcare services more conveniently and efficiently. As this framework continues to evolve, collaboration between tech companies, healthcare providers, and government institutions will be crucial to cultivating an ecosystem that supports these innovative transportation solutions.

The study emphasizes that Municipalities are crucial players in Medical MaaS, as many initiatives rely on local governance to implement and scale these services effectively. Increased government support and policy articulation around Medical MaaS will likely catalyze further investment and participation from various stakeholders in the healthcare and transportation sectors.

Conclusion

According to Seed Planning, while there are challenges to overcome regarding implementation and public acceptance, the groundwork for Medical MaaS services in Japan is promising. As the country adapts to its demographic challenges, Medical MaaS stands out as a vital transition, enhancing healthcare accessibility for those who need it most. For further information about the research, please contact Seed Planning via their official channels.

Get in Touch

For more insights into Medical MaaS or inquiries regarding this research, visit Seed Planning's official page or contact the public relations department at koho@seedplanning.co.jp.