Google has announced significant changes to its Healthcare and medicines policy for Japan, effective January 2025, allowing licensed online pharmacies and telemedicine providers to advertise prescription drug services.
Key Policy Changes
The updated policy permits advertising from:
- Online medicine retailers
- Online pharmacies
- Telemedicine providers
Qualification Requirements
Online Pharmacies Must:
- Hold valid MHLW pharmacy license, or
- Obtain LegitScript Healthcare Merchant Certification
Telemedicine Providers Must:
- Possess valid medical institution license from MHLW, or
- Secure LegitScript Healthcare Merchant Certification
Implementation Details
- Policy launch: January 2025
- Application process opens with policy launch
- No changes to over-the-counter medicine retailer policies
- Seven-day minimum warning before account suspension
Certification Process
All qualifying advertisers must:
- Meet specified licensing requirements
- Register with appropriate authorities
- Obtain Google certification
- Maintain compliance with MHLW regulations
This policy update reflects Google's effort to accommodate Japan's evolving healthcare delivery landscape while maintaining advertising standards.
