title: Revision of measures to combat intractable diseases in Japan: Three pillars will play an even greater role in the future.
abstract: Over the past 40 years, measures to combat intractable diseases in Japan have progressed substantially since the implementation of the "Outline of Measures to Combat Intractable Diseases" in 1972. However, many challenges remain. In order to further promote measures to combat intractable diseases, a "Revision of Measures to Combat Intractable Diseases" was approved by the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare (MHLW) on January 25, 2013. The revision rests on the three pillars of development of effective strategies to treat intractable diseases and improved care for those affected, creation of fair and consistent mechanisms to reimburse medical expenses, and implementing measures to enhance public understanding and encourage the social participation of those affected. These pillars will play an even greater role in future measures to combat intractable diseases.
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
authors.forename: Peipei
authors.initials: P
authors.lastname: Song
authors.affiliation: Department of Surgery, Graduate School of Medicine, The University of Tokyo, Tokyo, Japan.
authors.forename: Norihiro
authors.initials: N
authors.lastname: Kokudo
keywords: Rare diseases; orphan drugs