Policy measures taken in Japan to improve the quality of life for patients with rare/intractable diseases

ABSTRACT Introduction: Rare/intractable diseases are a pressing public health issue and a challenge to medical care worldwide. The Government-supported special measures will be the key to improving the quality of life of patients with rare/intractable diseases. Areas covered: In this article, the national multiple strategies to overcome rare/intractable disease in Japan, especially the new measures implemented during the past five years, were introduced, with the purpose of providing a reference for other countries coping with rare/intractable diseases elsewhere around the world. Expert opinion: Special measures will, along with Government support, be key to improving the quality of life of patients with rare/intractable diseases in Japan.

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