25-Dec-15 Japan's first new school of medicine in 38 years will open close to Narita Airport with the aim of capitalizing on the medical tourism market and attracting foreign visitors for medical check-ups and treatments from world-class physicians. Foreign visitors will be offered general checkups, advanced medical care and the opportunity to see the sights of Tokyo. [image: International University of Health and Welfare]

24-Dec-15 China's public insurance coverage is far less than adequate with low reimbursement rates – patented medicine and use of high-end medical devices are usually not covered. These gaps, together with China’s effort to boost investment in private healthcare insurance, have opened up attractive opportunities for foreign insurance companies, as the sector grows at over 40% annually. [image: China Briefing]

23-Dec-15 Korea's Ministry of Health announced the Act on Overseas Medical Service & Support for Foreign Patient Attraction will become effective on 23-Jun-16. The Act helps Korean medical institutions make inroads abroad and supports the interests of non-Korean patients in Korea. Medical advertisements in foreign languages will be allowed at Korean airports, and overseas patients will be able to receive remote services via IT. [image: Business Korea]

22-Dec-15 iKang Healthcare Group, China's largest private preventive healthcare provider, announced it has acquired 70% interest of Xi'an iKang Health Management, which owns three medical centers under the brand name Xi'an INLUNG. This marks iKang's first steps into Xi'an, capital of Shaanxi Province. [image: Sapphire Healthcare]

21-Dec-15 Australia's doctors lobby has warned the government not to allow health funds to price insurance based on factors such as age and lifestyle, while attacking "junk" policies that don't cover common procedures. Government budgets are under strain and surging costs have put pressure on premiums, prompting a federal review into private insurance and other reviews of the health system. [image: Andrew Meares / The Age]