#Japan #digital health #Smart City #Hitachi #Hitachi City

Hitachi City and Hitachi Ltd. Unveil a Vision for a Healthy Living Community

In a remarkable initiative, Hitachi City, led by Mayor Haruki Ogawa, has teamed up with Hitachi Ltd., headed by CEO Toshiyuki Tokunaga, to design a grand vision focused on creating a 'Healthy Living City.' This ambitious project centers on leveraging digital health, medical, and nursing care technologies aimed at tackling local societal challenges. The ultimate goal is to develop a smart city by the year 2031, which aligns with the city’s strategic comprehensive plan.

A Blueprint for Healthier Living

The grand design articulates a future where health and well-being are enhanced through technological advancements. This vision is not just an abstract concept; it is a practical framework that highlights how digital solutions can resolve various issues faced by citizens, healthcare providers, and caregivers. By employing digital strategies, Hitachi aims to foster a community that embodies health and wellness in everyday life.

To achieve this vision, Hitachi City and Hitachi Ltd. are focusing on three cornerstone areas: the digitization of regional healthcare, the aggregation and utilization of health data, and the establishment of a regional comprehensive care system. These foundational efforts will not only improve health outcomes but also ensure that citizens actively engage in their wellness journeys.

Key Initiatives Underway

1. Digitization of Regional Healthcare

To improve medical access and reduce the burden of visits, Hitachi is launching various online healthcare services. Starting in April 2025, the city will provide 24/7 telemedicine consultations for pediatric patients and families. This initiative is designed to alleviate pressure on local emergency services and provide immediate care access for parents, marking a significant advance in community healthcare provision.

2. Health Data Aggregation and Utilization

Hitachi is committed to collecting and analyzing health data from various insurers within the city. This initiative aims to identify and address widespread health issues through predictive analytics. In 2025, the city plans to execute AI-driven analyses of health data provided voluntarily by residents using a health app. This ambitious project will enable personalized feedback on health risks, guiding citizens towards proactive health management and preventive care.

3. Establishing a Regional Comprehensive Care System

Aiming to enhance the quality of life (QoL) for those requiring care, Hitachi will foster closer collaboration among healthcare professionals, families, and caregivers. Starting in September 2024, an innovative model project will be implemented that utilizes ICT tools to streamline information sharing among service providers. This initiative will pursue seamless medical and nursing services, especially during transitions such as hospitalization, transfer, and discharge.

Future Engagement and Citizen Participation

Hitachi City and Hitachi Ltd. pledge to continue dialogue with citizens and stakeholders in healthcare and elder care sectors, ensuring that their strategies remain responsive to community needs. They aim to incorporate the latest technological advancements and shifts in social context into their grand design, actively promoting interest in health and medical services among residents. This collaborative approach is pivotal for realizing the future society envisioned by the city.

About Hitachi City

Hitachi City, known for its rich natural beauty and history rooted in the Meiji era, is often celebrated as a manufacturing hub with a strong commitment to community well-being. It balances industrial development with environmental preservation, offering a unique living experience for its residents. Additionally, the city has a fascinating connection to the origins of radio exercises, with local figure Kiichiro Toyama being pivotal in their development.

About Hitachi Ltd.

Hitachi Ltd. plays a significant role in advancing society through innovation in information, operational technology, and product services. The company is focused on creating a harmonized society that balances environmental sustainability, happiness, and economic growth. With global operations and a workforce of around 280,000 employees, Hitachi is leading various projects aimed at societal improvement and technological advancement.

Conclusion

Hitachi City's strategic partnership with Hitachi Ltd. exemplifies how urban planning can intertwine with health technology for a harmonic future. By innovating in digital health and promoting citizen involvement, they are laying the foundation for a truly dynamic and healthy living environment.