*We uploaded the 2nd version of the public opinion survey report on national health insurance finance, dementia, remote diagnosis by doctors, end-of-life care, and sources of healthcare information.

HGPI has been undertaking regular surveys of public opinion on healthcare issues since 2006 in order to gain a better understanding of public perceptions and a better awareness of the health services and health care policies that the public desires.

Continuing on from previous surveys, the 2017 survey included questions on the level of satisfaction that the public feels with the current healthcare system. In addition, the survey included questions on pressing issues such as measures to prevent passive smoking, the self-medication tax deduction system, and refill prescriptions.

Survey Highlights

• Respondents were divided on their general level of satisfaction with the healthcare system.
• In particular, there is low satisfaction in the degree of citizen participation in institutional decisions, and the fairness of decision-making processes in the healthcare system.
• About half of respondents backed a full ban on smoking in eating and drinking establishments, irrespective of the establishment’s floor space. 
• 66% of respondents believe that e-cigarettes should be targeted in preventive measures against passive smoking.
• 89% of respondents were unaware of the self-medication tax deduction system.

Healthcare policy based on survey results (future discussion points)

The following insights emerged from the survey as main discussion points concerning the sustainability of the healthcare system. 

•  Although efforts have been made to promote participation among the public in medical institution decision making, further measures to encourage more active participation and improved process transparency could be a future issue.
• Measures against passive smoking affect human life and public health policies. The realization of highly effective passive smoking countermeasures may also be a future issue.

For more detailed information on the survey, please refer to the PDF file.