DAI-ICHI INTRODUCES RECEIPT PAYMENT SYSTEM FOR HOSPITAL STAYS

Japan-based insurer Dai-Ichi Mutual Life has introduced a system under which benefits for hospital stays of 14 days or less are paid to claimants on the basis of hospital receipts. Previously the insurer had followed the standard system of requiring medical certificates. Dai-Ichi said that the system would shorten the time policyholders had to wait for payment, as well as obviating the requirement to pay for the medical certificate, a bill which runs to several thousand yen. From April, medical institutions in Japan will be required to issue receipts that specify how the fees have been broken down. Dai-Ichi will still require claimants to obtain medical certificates signed by their doctor for stays of more than 14 days, or if the medical institution’s receipt does not break down the fees for surgery and other matters.