November 4 2026
TOKYO – The Ministry of Health, Labor and Welfare presented a draft policy at an expert panel meeting on Nov. 4 to strengthen support systems for people with “severe behavioral disorders,” including self-injurious behavior and property destruction.
The plan would expand reimbursement for disability welfare service providers that accept such individuals, making it easier for them to utilize specialists with advanced expertise. Details will be finalized by the end of the year, with the measures to be reflected in the fiscal 2027 revision of disability welfare service fees.
Severe behavioral disorders are more likely to occur in people with severe intellectual disabilities or autism spectrum disorder. They may frequently engage in behaviors such as hitting others or crying loudly for prolonged periods. However, such behaviors are said to be alleviated through appropriate support.
Some service providers struggle to respond due to a lack of expertise and other factors, making it a challenge to reduce the burden on family members who provide care at home.
Under the MHLW’s draft policy, reimbursement would be increased when service providers collaborate with specialists to deliver disability welfare services. The measure would apply to cases in which a service user’s condition has deteriorated and intensive support is required over a short period. Specialists would analyze the factors behind the behavioral difficulties and offer advice on appropriate support.
Specialists are registered with prefectural governments and other authorities, and service providers are required to pay them honoraria. However, there have been concerns that reimbursement is insufficient, limiting the use of such specialists.
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