Photo/Illutration Although the existing childbirth allowance covers much of the delivery cost, it creates inequalities because fees vary by hospital. (Asahi Shimbun file photo)

The health ministry is moving to standardize childbirth costs nationwide as part of efforts to make giving birth entirely free of charge and eliminate existing inequalities.

Currently, delivery fees are not covered by national health insurance and vary by medical institution.

Under the new plan, a uniform rate would be established across the country and be fully funded through the public health care system.

Although the government’s childbirth allowance currently in place mostly covers delivery costs, some mothers still pay more than others depending on the medical facilities available in their area.

No change would be made for Caesarean sections and other specialized medical procedures partly covered by national health insurance, with mothers required to cover 30 percent of the cost out of pocket.

Celebratory meals and esthetic services, often offered by hospitals after childbirth, would not be included in the standard rate and would remain self-funded.

However, the ministry is also weighing providing limited cash benefits to offset such optional services.

Under the new plan, the existing childbirth allowance granted for each birth will be abolished.

Although the handout was substantially increased to 500,000 yen ($3,200) in 2023, rising delivery costs have partly offset the benefit of that increase, driven by inflation, higher labor expenses and a declining birthrate.

While the new system is expected to be outlined by the end of the year, the standardized fee will be decided next year.

Officials are considering a phased rollout, starting with facilities that can adopt the system early.

The government’s key fiscal and economic policy outline, approved in June, calls for standard childbirth to be free of charge by fiscal 2026.

However, officials now acknowledge that the new system is unlikely to be fully operational by April, when the fiscal year begins.

Despite government efforts, the initiative is opposed by health care providers that fear smaller clinics may be forced to close, reducing access to obstetric care in local communities.

The Japan Association of Obstetricians and Gynecologists is warning that uniform pricing could worsen financial difficulties for hospitals and clinics, particularly in regions already struggling with declining birthrates.

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