If, as a result of the evaluation referred to in Article 12, paragraph (3), the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare finds it necessary for achieving the goals set forth in Article 8, paragraph (4), item (ii) and in Article 9, paragraph (2), item (ii) in each prefecture and for promoting the optimization of medical expenses, the Minister may specify medical fees in the areas of one prefecture that are different from those in the areas of other prefectures, within a scope that is found to be reasonable from the viewpoint of providing appropriate medical care fairly among the prefectures, while taking into account the actual conditions of the area.
In establishing the provisions of the preceding paragraph, the Minister of Health, Labour and Welfare is to consult with the relevant prefectural governors in advance.
厚生労働大臣は、前項の定めをするに当たつては、あらかじめ、関係都道府県知事に協議するものとする。
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