#Japan #Osaka #Osaka Prefecture #Alfresa Corporation #Container Pharmacy

Alfresa Corporation and Osaka Prefecture: A New Era in Disaster Response

Alfresa Corporation, renowned for its wholesale pharmaceutical operations, has recently forged an agreement with Osaka Prefecture aimed at bolstering the region's healthcare framework, particularly in the wake of large-scale disasters such as the Nankai Trough Earthquake. This collaboration will establish a 'Disaster Support Container Pharmacy,' designed to enhance medical service delivery during emergencies.

Background and Objectives

Alfresa's mission, anchored in the motto 'Creating and delivering a vibrant life for all', emphasizes addressing social and environmental challenges through its business practices. The Group's commitment to sustainability highlights its focus on 'contributions to regional healthcare', ensuring the reliable and safe supply of medications as a fundamental social infrastructure.

Recent years have witnessed an increase in natural disasters across Japan, including heavy rain and earthquakes, which have significantly impacted local communities. Recognizing the critical need to mitigate risks associated with pharmaceutical supply disruptions during disasters, Alfresa developed the Container Pharmacy in 2023. This innovative solution combines durability and mobility, and can also function as a building if necessary. Earlier this year, Alfresa signed a similar agreement with Fujieda City in Shizuoka Prefecture, marking the first steps toward strengthening medical response capabilities in disaster situations.

Simultaneously, Osaka Prefecture is undertaking initiatives for its FY2025 project to establish training facilities equipped with container-based pharmaceutical systems. This training will cover 'home healthcare' and 'disaster response' topics, ensuring the development of highly specialized pharmacists and enhancing emergency preparedness. The selection of Alfresa as a collaborative partner stems from their pioneering efforts in Fujieda, paving the way for the introduction of similar systems in Osaka Prefecture.

Through this agreement, Alfresa will support Osaka's healthcare delivery framework by sharing its expertise and resources, enabling a more robust response to pharmaceutical supply emergencies and providing continual training for pharmacists.

Agreement Summary

Key Highlights:

1. Signing Date: Scheduled for January 16, 2026.
2. Parties Involved: Osaka Prefecture and Alfresa.
3. Agreement Duration: From January 16, 2026, to March 31, 2032. (Subject to adjustments based on discussions between the parties.)
4. Alfresa's Responsibilities:
- Manage and maintain the Container Pharmacy at the Alfresa Osaka Logistics Center.
- Conduct training sessions utilizing the Container Pharmacy.
- Respond promptly to requests from Osaka Prefecture for the deployment of the Container Pharmacy.
- Transport and set up the Container Pharmacy at designated disaster relief shelters under Osaka Prefecture's directives during major disasters.

Overview of the Container Pharmacy

Description

The Container Pharmacy transforms standard cargo containers into fully equipped pharmaceutical dispensaries. Key features include: automated pill dispensing machines, shelves for tablets and liquids, clean benches, basic bedding, electronic scales, climate control systems, lighting, water tanks, and generators, all capable of being transported by truck.

Distinct Features

The containers are built robustly, offering resistance against strong winds and ensuring security for the contained medical supplies and equipment. Each container can transport a substantial volume of pharmaceuticals, ensuring that critical medications reach disaster zones more efficiently. Moreover, by incorporating generators and water tanks, the Container Pharmacy can sustain operations during prolonged outages, connecting to local infrastructure when available.

Operation During Major Disasters

Upon a disaster event, Alfresa will promptly respond to Osaka Prefecture's requests by transporting and setting up a fully stocked Container Pharmacy at shelters. Once operational, the facility will assist in providing medical service under emergency prescription guidelines set forth for regions affected by disaster response laws.

In conclusion, this partnership between Alfresa Corporation and Osaka Prefecture embodies a proactive approach to healthcare provision in times of crisis, ensuring that communities remain resilient and adequately supported during emergencies. The Container Pharmacy stands as a testament to innovation in disaster healthcare, reinforcing the vital intersection of public health preparedness and sustainability.