Japanese Business Glossary

全国健康保険協会 (zenkoku kenko hoken kyokai), commonly known as the Japan Health Insurance Association, is a public corporation in Japan responsible for managing health insurance programs for employees of small to medium-sized businesses and their dependents. Established under the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, this organization plays a crucial role in the Japanese healthcare system by providing accessible and affordable health insurance coverage to a significant portion of the workforce.

The association administers the health insurance program, known as 協会けんぽ (kyokai kenpo), which includes collecting insurance premiums, processing medical claims, and disbursing benefits. These benefits cover medical expenses, hospitalization, and preventive care, ensuring that insured individuals receive necessary healthcare services.

Zenkoku kenko hoken kyokai also engages in health promotion activities, aiming to improve public health and prevent illnesses through educational campaigns and wellness programs. By offering comprehensive health insurance and promoting healthier lifestyles, the association contributes to the overall well-being of Japan's workforce and their families.

下戸 (geko) is a Japanese term that refers to a person who cannot drink alcohol or who has a low tolerance for alcohol. In Japanese culture, it is often used to describe someone who either abstains from drinking or gets intoxicated easily with small amounts of alcohol. The term is commonly used in social contexts, particularly when discussing drinking habits or when someone declines an alcoholic beverage.

前提 (zentei) is a Japanese term that means "premise" or "assumption." It refers to a condition or a basis that is assumed to be true and upon which further reasoning, arguments, or actions are based.

For example, in a discussion or argument, zentei would be the underlying assumption that both parties accept as true before proceeding with their main points. In a business context, it might refer to the fundamental assumptions made when planning a strategy or making a decision.

要介護2 (yokaigo ni) is a classification within Japan's Long-Term Care Insurance system. It indicates a level of need for care and support for elderly individuals. This system, managed by the Ministry of Health, Labour, and Welfare, categorizes care levels from 要介護1 (lowest) to 要介護5 (highest).

Yokaigo ni specifically indicates that the individual requires moderate assistance with daily activities. This includes help with personal care tasks such as bathing, dressing, and eating, as well as support with mobility and housework. The classification is determined through an assessment process that evaluates the individual's physical and mental condition.

Receiving a yokaigo ni classification qualifies the individual for various support services, including home care, day care, and nursing home services. The goal is to provide the necessary assistance to help the individual maintain as much independence as possible while ensuring their safety and well-being.

平均余命 (heikin yomei) refers to "life expectancy" in Japanese. It is a statistical measure that estimates the average number of years a person can expect to live based on current age and mortality rates.

Life expectancy is typically calculated at birth, but it can also be computed for other ages. It reflects the overall health and longevity of a population and is influenced by factors such as healthcare, living conditions, and lifestyle.

In a broader sense, heikin yomei is used in demographic studies, public health planning, and policy-making to understand and improve population health outcomes.

社会保障制度 (shakai hosho seido) refers to the social security system in Japan. It encompasses various programs designed to provide financial support and services to individuals and families, ensuring their well-being and security.

The social security system includes public health insurance, pensions, unemployment benefits, and welfare services. Public health insurance covers medical expenses, while the pension system provides financial support during retirement or in case of disability. Unemployment benefits offer temporary financial assistance to those who have lost their jobs, and welfare services help those in need of basic living support.

Overall, the social security system aims to reduce economic inequality and provide a safety net for all citizens, contributing to the overall stability and health of society.