#Japan #Tokyo #Kids Public #Online Healthcare #Nippon Piston

Nippon Piston Group Expands Access to Online Healthcare

Nippon Piston Group, a global leader in various industries, is broadening its commitment to employee welfare by extending the use of the "Obstetrics and Pediatrics Online" service to all its domestic group companies starting April 1, 2026. The initiative will initially serve around 2,818 employees and their families, reflecting the company’s ongoing efforts to support the health and well-being of its workforce.

Overview of the Online Consultation Service

Launched in September 2024 by Kids Public, a health technology company based in Tokyo, this innovative service enables users to consult with pediatricians, obstetricians, and midwives online, 24/7. The goal is to facilitate access to specialized medical advice for concerns surrounding infertility, menopause, pregnancy, and childcare, all while ensuring the anonymity of the users. This means that even those who are not directly experiencing the issues—including family members or partners—can seek support on behalf of the employee.

Background of the Implementation

Nippon Piston Group, known for its high-quality springs and vital components that support automotive, information technology, and other essential industries, has been proactive in fostering a health-centric work environment. The company believes that a healthy and engaged workforce is crucial for sustained growth. In addition to distributing a "Work and Childcare Handbook," they have hosted parenting support events and health seminars aimed at female employees. Their commitment to employee well-being recently earned them the prestigious "Platinum Kurumin Certification" from the Japanese Ministry of Health, Labour and Welfare, and they have also achieved the "Eruboshi Certification (3 stars)."

Aimed Support for Diverse Needs

The need for this service arose from requests within the workforce for easily accessible health consultation channels. With the continued expansion of this service to 13 group companies, Nippon Piston Group is keen on providing uniform health support across their diverse geographic footprint. Employees across different locations can now reach out to a network of 267 medical professionals associated with Kids Public, ensuring that assistance is consistently available, regardless of where employees are situated.

Functions of the Online Consultation Service

24/7 Text Consultations

Employees can submit their questions anytime, with a guaranteed response from a specialist within 24 hours. This feature is designed to foster immediate comfort and understanding—qualities that workers often seek in their healthcare providers.

Evening Consultation Appointments

For more in-depth discussions, consultations can be booked in the evenings on weekdays between 6 p.m. and 10 p.m. Available via LINE chat or video calls, these sessions can be reserved up to 15 minutes before the appointment.

Educational Resources

To enhance medical literacy among employees, monthly articles authored by medical professionals in pediatrics and obstetrics are disseminated via email and LINE. These pieces aim to provide insightful information and updates on various health topics.

Live Streaming Sessions

Live broadcasts covering essential topics such as breastfeeding, weaning, and nutrition introduce a convenient learning avenue for working parents. Recorded sessions will be available for viewing the next day, allowing employees on maternity or parental leave to stay informed without disrupting their routines.

Voices from the Company

In a statement, a representative from Nippon Piston Group remarked on the importance of addressing the previously voiced need for an easily accessible health consultation system. This new service allows employees to discuss a wide range of health concerns confidentially, providing them with the reassurance needed to take care of their health without fear of stigma.

Kids Public's Naoya Hashimoto, a pediatrician and company representative, expressed pride in supporting the well-being of Nippon Piston Group employees and their families. He noted that maintaining health and wellness aligns with the company principle that employee strength translates to organizational strength.

About Kids Public

Founded in 2015 by Dr. Naoya Hashimoto in Tokyo, Kids Public has transformed health consultations with its pioneering online services. With more than 150,000 registered users and over 300,000 consultations to date, the organization operates a robust network of over 250 healthcare professionals offering diverse support tailored to pregnancy and childcare. Their commitment stretches from ICT-based health consultations to invaluable educational resources, all aimed at fostering a healthier society.

Conclusion

Through this expansion, Nippon Piston Group is setting a proactive tone in corporate health management. The emphasis on mental and physical wellness signals a promising future for employees, where their health is prioritized alongside their professional roles.