Effective May 8, 2023, the status of new coronavirus infectious diseases under the Infectious Disease Control Law has been moved from “category 2 equivalent” to “category 5”. As a result, the government will no longer be able to restrict the behavior of individuals, and infection control measures will be at the discretion of individuals. In addition, the cost of tests and treatment, which was previously covered by the government, will now be borne by the individual.
Changes after the transition to “Category 5”
Tests
In principle, testing is performed at your own expense, whether at a medical institution or using a test kit.
Medical Expenses
As with other illnesses, 30% of medical and testing costs are to be paid out-of-pocket (10% for those over 75 years of age). In addition, after testing positive, support for inpatient and outpatient medical expenses will no longer be provided, and patients will be responsible for their own medical expenses from now on.
Note
Until September 30, in order to lighten the burden on patients, a portion of the amount to be paid out-of-pocket may be covered by public funds. Please check the procedures required in some cases. The continuation of both of these programs after October has not yet been determined.
Until September 30, in order to lighten the burden on patients, a portion of the cost may be covered by public funds from the amount that is to be paid by the patient. Please check the procedures that may be required. The continuation of both of these programs after October has not yet been decided.
- Some high-cost treatments
- In case of hospitalization, part of the medical expenses covered by the high-cost medical care reimbursement
Certificate of Medical Treatment
Cannot be issued. If you need this for an insurance claim, please consult your contracted insurance company.
However, persons who tested positive before May 7, 2023 and who are eligible for notification of occurrence may be issued a medical care certificate.
When Infected or Worried about Infection
When Infected
Work or school
Follow the instructions of the company or school you say you are at.
If a family member tests positive
Even if a family member is infected, he or she will not be identified as a person in concentrated contact with the disease, and in principle, there is no need to refrain from going out.
Please take precautions against infection such as wearing masks and disinfecting frequently, and take care of your own health.
As for going to work or school, please check with your company or school.
Going out
Whether or not to refrain from going outside is a personal decision, but it is recommended to refrain from going outside for 5 days after the onset of the disease and until 24 hours have passed after recovery.
Also, until 10 days have passed after the onset of the disease, it is advisable to avoid spreading the infection to others around you by wearing masks and avoiding contact with people at risk of serious illness (elderly, pregnant women, people with underlying medical conditions, etc.).
If you are concerned about infection
If you have symptoms such as fever, consult your family doctor, a local medical institution, or the Gunma Medical Consultation Call Center. Please be sure to contact the medical institution in advance of your visit.
- Gunma Medical Examination and Consultation Call Center
- Phone: 0570-082-820 (available 24 hours a day, including Saturdays, Sundays, and holidays)
If you are asymptomatic, keep an eye on your condition at home or use an over-the-counter test kit.