Memorandum Current state of the Japanese medical industry 100
Efficient use of medical resources
In order to make effective use of limited medical resources, cooperation and division of roles between medical institutions are being promoted. A system has been established in which regional core hospitals and clinics cooperate to provide appropriate medical services according to the patient's condition. In addition, task shifting and task sharing among medical staff are being implemented to improve work efficiency and quality.
Strengthening health promotion and preventive medicine
In response to the increase in lifestyle-related diseases and the aging population, emphasis is being placed on preventive medicine and health promotion. Health education programs such as increasing the attendance rate of regular health checkups and exercise and nutritional guidance are being developed. Local governments and companies are also promoting health management and making efforts to raise the health awareness of employees and citizens.
Improving the quality and safety of medical care
In order to prevent medical accidents and improve the quality of services, medical institutions are introducing quality control systems. Risk management systems are being strengthened by assigning medical safety managers and utilizing incident reports. In addition, they are making efforts to improve services by utilizing feedback from patients.
Contribution to Global Health
Japan is contributing to solving international health issues through technical assistance and human resource development. In particular, assistance is provided to developing countries in the areas of infectious disease control and maternal and child health. Global health is being promoted through collaboration with international organizations and NGOs.
Issues and measures for elderly medical care
As the elderly population increases, complex medical needs such as dementia and multiple diseases are increasing. There is a need to provide specialized elderly medical care and strengthen the comprehensive community care system. In addition, seamless care is being provided through collaboration between nursing care facilities and medical institutions.
Women's participation in the medical field
Promotion of the participation of female medical professionals is being promoted. By creating an environment where women can balance childcare and work and supporting career advancement, workplaces where women can work long-term are being created. This is expected to resolve the shortage of human resources and provide medical care from a diverse perspective.
Integration of medical care and ICT
The use of ICT technology is progressing with remote medical care and sharing of electronic medical records. Cloud services and big data analysis are improving the efficiency and quality of medical care. In particular, remote medical care contributes to the enhancement of regional medical care and the convenience of patients.
Development of rehabilitation medicine
Rehabilitation medicine plays an important role in patients' social reintegration and improvement of QOL. The development of rehabilitation equipment using robotics and VR has progressed, making effective rehabilitation possible. In addition, the spread of home rehabilitation has created an environment in which patients can receive continuous care at home.
Current situation and issues of psychiatric care
With increasing interest in mental health, there is a demand for the enhancement of psychiatric care. The establishment of local consultation desks and mental health measures in the workplace are being promoted. However, issues such as a shortage of specialists and social prejudice remain, and comprehensive measures are needed.
Medical ethics and legal issues
With the development of advanced medical care such as gene therapy and AI diagnosis, ethical and legal issues have emerged. Social discussion is required on issues such as protecting patient privacy and the location of responsibility for medical AI. Strengthening the role of ethics committees and establishing laws have created a framework for appropriate medical care provision.
Diversity and inclusion in medical personnel
In the medical field, there is a demand for personnel with diverse backgrounds to play an active role. By respecting diversity, such as gender, age, nationality, and the presence or absence of disabilities, it is possible to provide medical services that can meet the diverse needs of patients. Promoting inclusion increases the flexibility and creativity of organizations.
Role of NPOs and NGOs
NPOs and NGOs play an important role in the medical field. They contribute to society through a wide range of activities, including support for local medical care, improving medical access, and awareness-raising activities. These organizations work in collaboration with public institutions and private companies to solve medical issues.
Japan's contribution in the field of global health
Japan is making active contributions in the field of global health. We provide technical support and human resource development to developing countries, such as measures against infectious diseases, maternal and child health, and nutritional improvement. We contribute to the promotion of global health through collaboration with international organizations and other countries.
Use of 3D printing in the medical field
3D printing technology is being used in the medical field. It makes it possible to create surgical models and implants that are tailored to the anatomical characteristics of each patient, improving the accuracy and safety of surgery. It is also applied to the production of prosthetic limbs and dentures, contributing to improving the quality of life of patients.
Patient advocacy and empowerment
There is a growing movement for patients to actively participate in their own medical care and take responsibility for their own health management. Patient organizations and support groups are active, providing information and advocating for rights. This is expected to promote patient-centered medical care and improve treatment outcomes.
Strengthening emergency medical care and disaster medical care
It is important to improve the emergency medical system in preparation for natural disasters and accidents. Efforts are being made to train emergency medical experts, stockpile medical supplies for disasters, and improve communication systems. First aid education for local residents is also being strengthened to improve initial response capabilities.
Revision of medical laws and regulations and patient rights
Relevant laws such as the Medical Care Act and the Medical Practitioners Act have been revised to protect patient rights and improve the quality of medical care. Transparent medical care is being provided through thorough informed consent and the establishment of a medical accident investigation system.
Medical tourism and accepting international patients
The number of foreign patients visiting Japan in search of advanced medical technology is increasing. Medical tourism not only has economic benefits, but also contributes to promoting international exchange. Efforts are underway to provide international-standard medical services by strengthening multilingual support and cultural sensitivity.
Review of medical finance and insurance system
In order to ensure sustainable medical finance, reform of the insurance system is being considered. A multifaceted approach is needed, including reviewing the self-payment ratio, improving the high medical fee system, and optimizing medical expenses.
Future prospects and challenges
With technological innovation and social changes, the medical industry is entering a new stage. The challenges and possibilities for the future are expanding, including further developments in AI and robotics technology, the spread of genomic and regenerative medicine, and contributions to global health.