A hospital group in Kobe, Japan, had applied to classify its treatment for eye diseases using induced pluripotent stem (iPS) cells as “advanced medical care,” which would allow for partial coverage under public health insurance. However, a panel of experts from the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare concluded that the current plan does not sufficiently demonstrate the treatment’s effectiveness.
iPS cells are a type of stem cell that can be generated directly from adult cells and have the potential to develop into any cell type in the body. This technology has been hailed for its potential in regenerative medicine, including treatments for various diseases.
The decision reflects ongoing scrutiny in Japan regarding the safety and efficacy of new medical treatments before they can be widely adopted and covered by insurance.
Source: www3.nhk.or.jp