Clinical Exchange in Japan

I had the opportunity to undertake a two-week clerkship with the Dermatology Department at Nagoya University Hospital. I was assigned a supervisor, who had a schedule prepared to ensure adequate exposure to both dermatology clinics and surgeries. I greatly appreciate the warm welcome and support the team has provided in fostering an environment for learning. They have been encouraging, to say the least, and given me the opportunity to have hands-on experience in both the clinical and surgical setting. I was made to feel like a valued member of the team – at one point, the surgeon in charge willingly sat out just so I could assist.

In my second week, I had the privilege of sitting in on Professor Akiyama’s consultations. The professor, who is the head of the department, was very friendly and down-to-earth. It was obvious that he is well-respected within the department as he values fostering close ties with the team and displayed genuine interest in the lives and concerns of his colleagues. Although language was an ever-present barrier, the team has taken every effort to translate patient cases and communicate with me. I got to discuss some of the research being carried out at Nagoya University Hospital with the team, such as the clinical characteristics of antibodies in dermatomyositis and polymyositis.

The entire placement has undoubtedly been enjoyable, but my favourite moment would have to be the Christmas party, where there was an abundance of great food, company and conversation. It was during this event that I got to partake and learn about some of the more intricate aspects of Japanese culture that I would otherwise not have had the chance to experience as a tourist.

This rotation has been amazing, and I have learnt heaps about not just dermatology, but also the Japanese healthcare system as a whole. I am also extremely grateful to Miho Kobayashi from the Office of International Affairs, for all the help she has provided with the application process.