Nagoya University Summer Program Brings Together International and Japanese Medical Students to Explore Community Medicine and Healthcare Innovation

2026.07.17

The Nagoya University Graduate School of Medicine and School of Medicine hosted the Nagoya University Summer Program 2026 - Bridging Community Medicine & Innovations in Japan from July 6 to July 14, 2026.

The program welcomed nine medical students from five partner universities: the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, Johns Hopkins University, Duke University, the University of California, Davis, and Lancaster University. They joined thirteen Nagoya University medical students in an intensive nine-day program designed to deepen their understanding of Japan's healthcare system, community medicine, and innovations in medical care.

Throughout the program, participants visited Nagoya University Hospital and the National Center for Geriatrics and Gerontology (NCGG), where they learned about advanced clinical care, healthy aging, and emerging healthcare technologies. Students also attended lectures by faculty members covering topics such as medical ethics, Kampo (traditional Japanese medicine), extended reality (XR) technologies, and healthcare innovation.

A highlight of the program was a two-day field experience in Gifu Prefecture, where students explored Japan's community-based integrated care system. They observed home medical visits with community physicians, visited local healthcare facilities, and learned how hospitals, clinics, rehabilitation services, and multidisciplinary professionals collaborate to support patients living in their own communities. Through these experiences, students gained valuable insights into person-centered care and the importance of understanding patients beyond their medical conditions.

International and Nagoya University students worked together throughout the program in mixed teams, participating in discussions, reflection sessions, and collaborative presentations. These activities encouraged participants to compare healthcare systems, exchange perspectives, and reflect on the social and cultural factors that shape medical practice in different countries.

According to the post-program survey, all participants reported that the program met or exceeded their expectations. Many students commented that experiencing Japan's community-based healthcare system and home medical care broadened their perspectives on patient care and inspired them to reflect on healthcare in their own countries.

The Nagoya University Summer Program serves as a platform for strengthening partnerships with leading international medical schools while providing students with opportunities to develop global perspectives, intercultural communication skills, and a deeper appreciation of patient-centered and community-oriented healthcare.

Nagoya University remains committed to expanding international collaboration and fostering the next generation of globally minded healthcare professionals through innovative educational initiatives.