Fast Doctor Launches Pediatric Online Medical Service Across Aomori Prefecture

In a significant healthcare development, Fast Doctor Inc., based in Shibuya, Tokyo, has embarked on a revolutionary journey by launching a pediatric online medical service throughout Aomori Prefecture. Starting from October 1, this initiative aims to provide seamless healthcare access to children under 18, marking a first-of-its-kind implementation in Japan that caters to the entire prefecture and offers services during daytime hours.

Overview of the Initiative

This program is part of Aomori Prefecture’s commitment to enhance its support for children and families. The aim is to expand parental options during medical visits, thereby promoting children's health and providing peace of mind for caregivers. Parents of children under 18 residing in Aomori can access this online service through a dedicated platform, allowing them to connect for consultations from as early as 6 AM until 8 PM every day of the year.

Upon registering, patients can expect an average waiting time of about 15 minutes before receiving medical care. Once diagnosed, prescribed medications can be picked up at a selected pharmacy in as little as one hour. This initiative not only serves to improve access to pediatric care but also addresses the pressing issue of pediatrician shortages prevalent across Japan.

Goals and Implementation Details

The core objective of this project is twofold: to ensure children’s health and to alleviate the burden on parents regarding pediatric consultations. The system has been carefully designed in collaboration with local pediatric associations and pharmacists, prioritizing the safety and comfort of the community. Aiming for a sustainable healthcare model, the prefecture has recognized the critical need for a robust pediatric healthcare framework, especially given that many rural areas face difficulties accessing medical services.

- Initiation Date: October 1, 2025
- Medical Specialty: Pediatrics (Online Consultation)
- Eligibility: Children aged 18 and below residing in Aomori
- Operating Hours: 6 AM – 8 PM daily
- Access Method: Residents can apply through a dedicated website to complete necessary steps like registration of insurance and payment methods before connecting to doctors.
- Prescription Delivery: Medications can be collected from nearby pharmacies approximately one hour after consultation (subject to pharmacy hours).
- Consultation Team: The service will be managed by pediatric specialists or physicians with at least three years of experience in pediatric care. In cases where an in-person visit is needed, the platform's nursing staff will facilitate arrangements with local healthcare facilities.

Addressing Pediatric Care Shortages

Experts have noted a concerning trend of diminishing pediatricians and equitable distribution. Aomori Prefecture ranks below the national average in healthcare professional availability and has been designated as a region with a relative shortage of medical practitioners. Furthermore, geographic challenges including heavy snowfall and distance exacerbate the difficulties faced by caregivers seeking medical attention for their children.

Children requiring treatment must endure long travels, particularly within Aomori’s mountainous terrain and rural areas. This often leads to families forgoing necessary medical visits or inappropriately using emergency services, highlighting the critical need for accessible healthcare solutions.

Future Implications

The introduction of this online pediatric service is expected to significantly improve the healthcare landscape in Aomori Prefecture. It exemplifies innovative thinking as local authorities and medical professionals come together to develop solutions tailored to the community's needs. The expected outcomes aim to foster a safer environment for raising children while burdening local healthcare resources less during peak times.

Fast Doctor is committed to continuing its journey in addressing the ongoing challenges posed by medical professional shortages across Japan. By establishing efficient and accessible healthcare systems, the ultimate goal remains: to eliminate uncertainties for healthcare seekers while easing the pressures on medical providers.

By June 2025, Fast Doctor will have established itself as a critical player in delivering sustainable regional healthcare. Their mission—rooted in reducing anxieties for families and easing the burdens on healthcare workers—stands to redefine how communities manage their health needs effectively.

For more information, visit Fast Doctor.

About Fast Doctor Inc.

Fast Doctor Inc. operates one of Japan's largest medical support platforms, leveraging a robust network of nearly 5,000 healthcare professionals to deliver urgent consultations and online services. Collaborating closely with local healthcare providers and municipalities, they champion diverse healthcare solutions that resonate with community needs while enhancing overall medical access and delivery efficacy.