Abstract

BARATA, Ana N.; TOKUDA, Yasuharu  and  MARTINS, Henrique M.G.. Comparing healthcare systems: considering Japan and Portugal. Rev. Port. Sau. Pub. [online]. 2012, vol.30, n.2, pp.180-192. ISSN 0870-9025.  https://doi.org/10.1016/j.rpsp.2012.10.003.

Introduction: This article makes a comparative analysis of the Japanese and Portuguese healthcare systems and draws conclusions as to how the Portuguese system may be reformed taking into account the Japanese experience. In a time of financial turmoil, where it is necessary to assure the maintenance of the National Health Service, it is important to learn with the best international practi a system that has to handle, for example, with the greatest life expectancy in the world and an aging population. The results of a survey carried out on 400 people (200 Japanese and 200 Portuguese) on the degree of satisfaction with the health care system, costs, patient-doctor relationship and alternative medicine use are analyzed as well. Methods: Comparative analysis, surveys and interviews. Results: The Japanese population has a higher grade of satisfaction of their healthcare system than the Portuguese. Conclusions: The Portuguese healthcare system may use some of the methods of the Japanese healthcare system in order to achieve better outcomes, be more efficient and therefore to better serve the general public.

Keywords : Portugal; Japan; Healthcare system; Comparative analysis.

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