#Hitachi #Osaka University #Hankyu Hanshin

Introduction

In a groundbreaking initiative to support heart failure patients, Hankyu Hanshin Holdings, Hitachi, and Osaka University's Graduate School of Medicine have embarked on a collaborative study. This study aims to build a new service for home care management, leveraging digital tools to enhance the quality of care and promote healthier living among patients in Japan's rapidly aging society.

Background of the Project

Japan's healthcare and nursing costs have surged, hitting approximately 50 trillion yen in 2018 and projected to escalate to around 94 trillion yen by 2040. This alarming trend underscores the urgent need for more sustainable healthcare solutions. The aging population has significantly contributed to a rise in chronic conditions, particularly cardiovascular diseases, posing a crucial challenge for the medical community.

In response, the collaboration seeks to merge digital solutions with traditional healthcare services. By integrating the Personal Health Record (PHR) application with practical everyday services, the project focuses specifically on heart failure patients. The goal is to foster self-management and behavior change to prevent worsening conditions and hospital readmissions.

Collaborative Framework

The involved parties—Hankyu Hanshin Holdings, Hitachi, and Osaka University—have dedicated significant resources to tackle the complexities of heart failure treatment. Utilizing the expertise of Osaka University's medical faculty, particularly Professor Shigeru Miya's team, the initiative aims to implement a clinically-backed home treatment system for patients relying on Left Ventricular Assist Devices (LVADs).

In partnership with Wellbeing Hankyu Hanshin and Oishii Kenko, both companies are collaboratively enhancing healthcare service offerings across various demographics, which are critical for promoting longer, healthier lives, especially in line with local transportation systems.

Detailed Plan of Action

The newly established service involves the deployment of a PHR app specially designed for heart failure patients. This initiative will support self-management through digital entries of vital health data, dietary guidance from nutritionists, and self-care video resources developed in collaboration with healthcare professionals.

Between November 2025 and January 2026, clinical trials at Osaka University Hospital will target heart failure patients in advanced stages. They will utilize the PHR app called