Clinical Exchange in Japan

I had learned about this clinical clerkship in Nagoya from upperclassmen students who also had similarly positive experiences. One of the main reasons why I was interested in a clinical experience in Japan was to learn about how the Japanese healthcare system differs from others, as well as how cultural factors might impact different aspects of patient care and treatment.

My experience rotating with the Geriatrics department at Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine has been exceptionally positive. I began the rotation with some trepidation, as my knowledge of the Japanese language was limited. However, my concerns were quickly assuaged early on. Each day, numerous attending physicians and medical students on the team took time and special care to translate for me, as well as to address any questions I had. Each day, I took part in a morning report and inpatient rounding. Throughout the rotation, I also was able to have department specific lectures and simulation training. One unique opportunity was the chance to wear geriatric simulator equipment that employed wearable weights, movement and posture restricting devices, as well as devices to impair vision and hearing. As I’ve never had such an opportunity before, it gave me a newfound appreciation for the practice of geriatrics and deeper insight into the challenges an older population must contend with along with their other diagnoses.

In the department of Psychiatry, I was able to learn in more detail about the differences in the practice of psychiatry in Japan. During the rotation, I was able to spend some time in conferences, the inpatient wards, and the research department. Each day, the schedule was varied which led to a multitude of new experiences and the chance to learn from a different attending.

My time in clinical assignments was balanced with ample time to explore the city of Nagoya during the work week, and other regions on the weekends. The preceptors I worked with were especially cognizant of the schedule of the international students and ensured that there was time for students outside of the hospital. I was especially grateful for this because it allowed me to learn about Japanese culture and aspects of their society in different ways. Overall my experience with the Nagoya University clerkship program was invaluable, and I am extremely grateful for the opportunity and the experience rotating in Japan during my time as a medical student.