The Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) has embarked on an audit based on the law to investigate whether there were any problems with the company's business management system, in response to the problem that Megumi Co., Ltd., which operates group homes for people with disabilities nationwide, collected more than the actual cost of meals from users in violation of national standards.
Regarding a group home for people with disabilities operated by Megumi Co., Ltd., headquartered in Minato-ku, Tokyo, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare (MHLW) issued a notice in June to the local government where the facility is located to investigate the actual situation, alleging that it was suspected that the cost of meal ingredients was collected from users more than the actual cost contrary to national standards, and investigations are being conducted in various places against business establishments.
Furthermore, at a press conference held on the 6th, the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare revealed that it had embarked on an audit based on the law to investigate whether there were any problems with the business management system of the corporation because group homes are deployed all over the country.
According to the Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, if a problem with the management system is found as a result of the audit, measures such as recommending the corporation to establish an appropriate system are made, and if it does not comply, the name of the corporation is disclosed.
At a press conference on the 26th, Minister Takemi said, "Generally speaking, if you overcharge food costs, it may fall under the category of 'economic abuse' under the Act on Prevention of Abuse of Persons with Disabilities, and we will continue to cooperate with local governments to conduct appropriate investigations."