[Current State and Challenges of Digital Health in Japan]

Japan faces significant challenges, including an aging population, rising healthcare costs, and strained healthcare sustainability. Digital health is an indispensable strategic imperative. Telemedicine, such as telestroke networks, reduces regional care disparities for acute stroke and is supported by national guidelines and reimbursement policies. Evidence-based digital therapeutics and software-based treatments are approved for conditions, such as hypertension and nicotine dependency, aiding chronic disease management by fostering sustained behavioral change. Artificial intelligence-driven data analysis improves prognostic accuracy and offers insights into more precise preventive interventions. However, systemic barriers hinder the widespread adoption of digital health, including 1) limited resources for implementation and maintenance, 2) stakeholder resistance because of low digital literacy, lack of confidence, and "change fatigue," 3) persistent technical and ethical challenges, including data interoperability issues, and 4) inadequate insurance reimbursement for digital health services. Achieving "digital maturity" requires moving beyond technological acquisitions. It is measured by how well systems use technology to improve patient and provider experiences and population health and reduce costs. Therefore, government, industry, and clinical stakeholders must collaborate to create a resilient and sustainable future for Japan.