[Medical resource utilization and allocation in Japan--evaluation of surgical expenditures]

We evaluated the appropriateness of medical cost allocation in Japan from the global aspect especially the percentage of the national budget for medical cost to gross national product (GDP). Base on OECD-Health Data in 2002, Japan was ranked high in the world in terms of medical services but was ranked the second lowest in terms of the percentage of medical cost to GDP (7.6%) among G7 advanced countries. In addition, at surgical departments, allocated medical cost is mostly used for surgical supplies and instruments, and only negligibly for doctor's fee. Unless this situation is improved, the surgical department in Japan will decline. Improvement measures should be taken without delay.