Enhanced Evaluation for Minimizing Physical Restraint: New Deductions and Additions in the FY2026 Medical Fee Revision (February 13, 2026) – Shakaihoken Kenkyusho

In the FY2026 medical fee revision,"Minimizing physical restraint"is being strengthened through both additions and deductions, signifying that consideration for human rights in medical settings has transformed into a "financial risk" that impacts the core of management.has transformed into a "financial risk"For medical institutions where restraint has become normalized due to chronic staff shortages, this regulatory change could critically impact their revenue structure.

From an M&A perspective in the medical field, "restraint utilization rates" and "alternative measure consideration processes" will be added to due diligence items. Facilities facing deduction risks may be deemed to have uncertain future revenue projections, potentially lowering their valuation during business succession. Conversely, facilities that have already implemented ICT monitoring systems to achieve zero restraint will likely attract stronger interest from buyers as "high-quality assets" due to their superior operational standards.

Executives facing succession issues should re-evaluate their institution's care quality using objective metrics. If establishing such systems independently is challenging, integrating with a group hospital that possesses educational resources and capacity for system investment is a realistic option to enhance regulatory compliance and protect both staff and patients.