Originally Published MX January/February
2003
INDUSTRY ASSOCIATIONS
AdvaMed offers medical technology as a palatable solution to Japan's healthcare crisis.
Marjory E. Searing
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Marjory E. Searing is executive vice president of global strategy and analysis at AdvaMed (Washington, DC), an industry trade association.
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There is a Japanese expression to the effect that "good medicine is bitter in the mouth." Certain medicines, however, are less difficult to swallow than others. Advanced medical technology, if afforded the right environment, is an example of a less-bitter solution to Japan's healthcare problems.
As Japan moves forward with planned reforms of its regulatory and reimbursement systems for medical technologies, it will be crucial for Japanese authorities to consider the roles that high-technology medical devices and diagnostic products can play in their society. Such medical technologies have the potential not only to improve the quality and efficiency of healthcare in Japan, but also to improve Japan's overall financial and economic situation.
