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Education and health
Primary, secondary schools and universities were introduced into Japan in 1872
as a result of the Meiji Restoration. Since 1947, compulsory education in Japan
consists of elementary school and middle school, which lasts for nine years
(from age 6 to age 15). Almost all children continue their education at a
three-year senior high school, and, according to the MEXT, about 75.9% of high
school graduates attend a university, junior college, trade school, or other
post-secondary institution in 2005. Japan's education is very competitive,
especially for entrance to institutions of higher education. According to The
Times Higher Education Supplement the two top-ranking universities in Japan are
the University of Tokyo and the Kyoto University.
In Japan, healthcare services are provided by national and local governments.
Payment for personal medical services is offered through a universal health care
insurance system that provides relative equality of access, with fees set by a
government committee. People without insurance through employers can participate
in a national health insurance program administered by local governments. Since
1973, all elderly persons have been covered by government-sponsored insurance.
Patients are free to select physicians or facilities of their choice.
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