Background: The use of telemedicine is expanding worldwide in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, and deregulation is occurring even in countries with strict regulations, such as Japan. Methods: We conducted a narrative review of the activities and initiatives undertaken by the government and professional organizations to promote the use of telemedicine in Japan from January 2020, when the COVID-19 pandemic began, to September 2021. Results: In Japan, where before the pandemic the spread of telemedicine had been limited, various recommendations and deregulations have now been made, resulting in the expanded use of telemedicine. In particular, the government's overall policy direction has become a catalyst for deregulation. Conclusions: With the COVID-19 pandemic, telemedicine is now moving toward widespread use. However, further activities and initiatives, including policy changes such as reimbursement and the establishment of evidence to show the effectiveness of telemedicine in Japan, are needed to properly disseminate telemedicine.
Keywords: COVID-19; government regulation; health insurance reimbursement; telemedicine.