[The values of physiological function testing accepted in new Japanese medical insurance policy 2012]

Physiological function tests are managed by the clinical laboratory medicine section in most hospitals in Japan. Appropriate usage and refunds for the tests are important for both medical benefits and economically sustainable medical insurance management. The Japanese medical insurance policy was revised this year, and many physiological function tests, mainly respiratory and cardiovascular function testing, were accepted for refunding. These tests are common in each field, but evidence for their medical benefits should be re-evaluated in Japanese people.