#Japan #Kids Public #Online Healthcare #Samani Town #Samani

Enhancing Childcare Support in Samani Town through Online Consultation

In an innovative move to support families and promote a child-friendly environment, Samani Town in Hokkaido will launch an online healthcare consultation service for maternity and pediatrics called 'Online Obstetrics and Pediatrics'. This initiative, created by Kids Public, a Tokyo-based company, will begin on July 1, 2025, to provide residents with much-needed healthcare access.

Background of the Online Service Launch

Samani Town is located in the southern part of Hokkaido's Hidaka region, recognized as a UNESCO Global Geopark due to the famed Mount Apoi, formed of unique peridotite rock. This region boasts not only stunning natural landscapes but also a rich cultural history, showcasing deep connections with the Ainu community. However, despite its scenic appeal, the town has faced significant challenges regarding maternal and pediatric healthcare access.

Since April 2025, residents have been trialing the online consultation service, revealing a desire amongst families for better healthcare options, particularly as the town currently lacks dedicated facilities for pediatrics and obstetrics. With the existing absence of healthcare professionals in these fields and inadequate consultation resources, parents have found themselves navigating health concerns alone.

In light of these needs, and leveraging successful implementations in nearby municipalities, Samani Town decided to officially adopt this online platform. By providing direct access to pediatricians, obstetricians, and midwives via smartphones, parents in the community can gain instant guidance and reassurance throughout pregnancy, childbirth, and early parenting stages.

Empowering Families and Addressing Challenges

The Mayor of Samani Town, Teruaki Araki, emphasized the critical importance of fostering a healthy environment for children as the foundation of the town's future. With the new online service, he aims to alleviate the anxiety surrounding sudden health issues during pregnancy and childcare by offering immediate support to families. The ultimate goal remains to make Samani Town a nurturing and accessible place for parents and children alike.

Additionally, public health nurse Kobayashi from the town's Health and Welfare Center noted an increase in worries and uncertainties reported by expectant mothers and new parents, given the geographical barriers and lack of medical facilities. The introduction of the 'Online Obstetrics and Pediatrics' service is not only set to enhance access to healthcare but is also positioned to strengthen community health support systems, making professional advice readily available at any time.

Features of the Online Consultation Service

The online consultation service features the following functionalities:
1. Evening Consultations: From Monday to Friday, from 6 PM to 10 PM, users can book a 10-minute consultation with an obstetrician or pediatrician.
2. 24/7 Inquiry: Users can submit questions through a web form for asynchronous responses, making expert advice available at their convenience.
3. Daytime Midwifery Consultation: Chat-based consultations with a midwife are available without prior reservation on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays from 1 PM to 5 PM.

These options collectively create an environment where young families can seek timely medical advice without the stress of travel and uncertainty.

Contact Information

For more information about the service, individuals can reach out to:

• - Kids Public, PR Department (Contact: Haruyama)
• - Website: Kids Public
• - Location: 5th Floor, SK Mitodai Building, 11-8 Kanda Mitodai-cho, Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo
• - Phone: 03-6774-7937
• - Email: [email protected]

By fostering an accessible healthcare framework, Samani Town aims not only to combat the challenges of declining birth rates but also to lay the foundation for happier, healthier families.