Japan to Promote Health and Prevention Services with Advanced Technologies
The Japanese government has officially announced the launch of a call for proposals aimed at creating services that utilize advanced technologies for health and preventive care solutions. This initiative takes place under the auspices of the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI), focusing on the application of Personal Health Record (PHR) data to advance healthcare digital transformation (DX) across the nation.
Background and Objectives
In recent years, a variety of services have emerged from private companies that harness information collected from health check-ups, such as weight, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels. These services also incorporate data from wearable devices and sensors that monitor aspects like diet, exercise, and sleep — collectively referred to as Personal Health Records (PHR). Considering Japan's demographic challenges, including a declining birthrate and an aging population, leveraging this data for preventive health and wellness has become increasingly vital. As a result, the government has recognized the essential role of PHR services in extending life expectancy and addressing health issues before they become critical.
In alignment with national strategies, the government's healthcare DX Promotion Headquarters was established in October 2022, and in the 2024 Basic Policy on Economic and Fiscal Management and Reform, it was specifically stated that PHR should be utilized in conjunction with medical and nursing care services. This proactive approach aims to foster meaningful discussions around the effective use of PHR within healthcare and elder care sectors.
The necessity for innovative service development is underscored by the fact that the number of individuals requiring support or care in Japan has been steadily increasing. This rise not only drives up expenditures for long-term care insurance but also impacts productivity for those balancing work and caregiving responsibilities. This scenario calls for urgent action to develop and implement new services that promote preventive care. By harnessing PHR, it is hoped that personalized care support services can be delivered efficiently, meeting individual needs.
Details of the Call for Proposals
By collaborating with PHR service providers, the initiative aims to develop novel services tailored to individual requirements that contribute to preventive care. The integration of advanced technologies, including AI, into services and information sharing platforms is expected to enhance service quality and reduce development costs. Furthermore, comprehensive analysis and organization of challenges will ensure the sustainability of PHR-driven services beyond the conclusion of the project's duration.
Eligibility Requirements
The call for proposals outlines two distinct categories for applicants:
1.
PHR Providers: Entities that manage or offer services utilizing PHR data, including the recommendation through AI technologies.
2.
Service Providers: Businesses that deliver consumer-targeted services aimed at preventive care and daily assistance.
Schedule for Application and Review
- - Start of Proposal Submission: June 13, 2025
- - Proposal Submission Deadline: July 4, 2025
- - Evaluation Period Ends: July 11, 2025
- - Results Announcement: Approximately one week following the evaluation
Funding Information
Each selected service provider will receive funding estimated between 10 million to 15 million yen, based on actual costs incurred. It is imperative for applicants to adhere to the guidelines stipulated within the application process. For comprehensive details, please refer to the official call for proposals page.
Application Instructions
Prospective applicants should visit the official announcement page to subscribe for information and instructions. Note that the deadline to apply for the public explanation meeting is June 26, 2025, at 18:00.
Inquiry Contact
For further inquiries pertaining to this initiative, please reach out to the Care PHR Operation Office at the following email: phr-ltc@accenture.com.