医療

• Reading: いりょう
• Romaji: iryou
• Kanji breakdown: 医 (i) — medicine, doctor; 療 (ryou) — heal, treat
• Pronunciation: /i.ɾjoː/

Meaning

Medical care; medical treatment. The overall system and practice of treating illness and injury.

A noun referring to medical care as a broad system rather than a specific treatment. Appears in many important compounds: 医療費 (medical expenses), 医療機関 (medical institution), 医療保険 (health insurance), and 医療従事者 (healthcare worker). Essential for discussing healthcare systems and policy.

Examples

1. 日本の医療制度は世界的に評価が高い。 Japan's healthcare system is highly regarded worldwide.
2. 地方では医療機関が不足している。 There is a shortage of medical facilities in rural areas.
3. 医療費の負担が大きくなっている。 The burden of medical expenses is increasing.

Usage Guide

Context: health, policy, news

Tone: neutral

Origin & History

Compound of 医 (i, medicine/doctor) and 療 (ryou, to heal/treat). Literally 'medical healing,' encompassing the full scope of professional medical practice.

Cultural Context

Era: Modern

Generation: All ages

Social background: Universal