Life Navigation & Social Security: Medical Fee Revision / Focus on Postpartum Care Expected from Regional Hospitals – Mainichi Shimbun

News Highlights

In the medical fee revision for fiscal year 2026, the provision of postpartum care is expected from regional hospitals. From the perspective of maintaining and strengthening regional healthcare, this could offer regional hospitals opportunities to secure new revenue streams and expand services. Key discussion points include medium- to long-term management strategies considering the revision cycle, economies of scale through group participation, and the utilization of tax schemes.

Perspective from M&A Medical Editorial Department

The expectation for regional hospitals to provide postpartum care in this medical fee revision goes beyond a mere expansion of services. Amidst the worsening shortage of providers for perinatal care in regions, it is essential for regional hospitals to take on this role to maintain the healthcare delivery system for local residents. In particular, it is not easy for regional hospitals to independently make the necessary facility investments and secure personnel for postpartum care. Through M&A, by collaborating with larger medical groups or medical institutions with a track record in postpartum care, there is a high probability of enjoying “economies of scale” such as maintaining facility standards, dispersing the burden of facility investment, and sharing specialized personnel. Furthermore, by considering tax schemes, including transitioning to specific or social medical corporations, we should also consider efficiently utilizing the increased revenue from the revision to build a sustainable management foundation.

Discussion Points Indicated by This News

• The expectation for postpartum care from regional hospitals reflects a policy intention to address the regional shortage of providers in perinatal care.
• While the introduction of postpartum care can become a new revenue source for regional hospitals, it also carries the risk of increased investment burdens for facilities and personnel.
• Participation in a group through M&A is an effective option for dispersing the investment burden required for postpartum care and maintaining facility standards.
• The necessity of incorporating trends in medical fee revisions into medium- to long-term management and succession strategies is increasing.

Practical Questions Arising from This News

• What specific facility investments and personnel arrangements are necessary for the introduction of postpartum care?
• To what extent is postpartum care expected to be evaluated in the medical fee revision, and when will the detailed revision details be announced?
• How should collaboration with nearby obstetrics clinics and maternity homes be advanced when introducing postpartum care?

If You Feel “Should I Consult Too?”

The expectation for postpartum care indicated in this medical fee revision may necessitate a review of your hospital’s regional role and management strategy. In particular, if independent implementation is difficult when considering the introduction or expansion of postpartum care, collaboration with other medical institutions through M&A or group participation can be an effective option. This is a good opportunity to consider, with experts, what options are optimal, based on your hospital’s current situation and future vision.

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