On October 31, 2025, members of the Yokohama City Health and Welfare Committee, led by Chairman Yasuhiro Mochizuki, visited Okayama University Hospital to explore collaborative projects addressing local healthcare issues through digital technology and regulatory reforms. This visit is part of the initiatives from the "Digital Rural Health Special Zone" designated to Kibichuo Town, where Okayama University Hospital is deeply involved in transformative models of community healthcare.
The meeting commenced with a welcoming address from President Yasutomo Nasu, who highlighted the importance of engaging communities without leaving anyone behind. Following this, Naoki Yasunobe, from the Kibichuo Town Planning Division, elaborated on creating an engagement community that supports this initiative, detailing the progress and plans to achieve their vision.
President and CEO Junichi Natsui of Birds View Co., which is involved in emergency digital transformation (DX), presented their current efforts in this area. Additionally, Kohei Ueda, an Assistant Professor from the Graduate School of Medicine at Okayama University, discussed the findings from their practical research on pre-hospital ultrasound examinations performed by paramedics and outlined the subsequent challenges they foresee moving forward. After presentations, Vice Hospital Director Jun Sakurai provided insights into the status of medical DX initiatives across Okayama Prefecture.
The Yokohama City Health and Welfare Committee members engaged in a lively discussion regarding the use of digital devices and AI in emergency medical settings, exploring the future landscape of medical DX needed in both mountainous and urban areas. To enhance their understanding of practical applications, the attendees were guided by Assistant Professor Ueda to visit the emergency doctor’s vehicle, allowing them to see firsthand the innovative measures being implemented in the field.
Okayama University remains committed to its long-term vision for 2050, aiming to collaborate with diverse stakeholders in fostering innovation across research, education, and healthcare. Their ongoing efforts within the Digital Rural Health Special Zone not only synergize with the "Regional Core and Distinctive Research University Promotion Project (J-PEAKS)" but also vigorously aim to realize community health that is deeply rooted in local needs.
As Okayama University continues its journey to co-create the future of regions and the planet while driving social transformation as a research university, stakeholders can anticipate significant advancements stemming from these collaborative initiatives. This approach exemplifies the university's dedication to innovating healthcare strategies that benefit both local communities and wider societal aspirations.
Photos: 1. President Nasu delivering the opening address. 2. Vice Director Sakurai explaining initiatives of Okayama University Hospital. 3. Stakeholders engaged in discussions regarding the initiatives. 4. A tour of the doctor’s emergency vehicle. 5. An overview of the J-PEAKS project initiatives.
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The initiatives presented reflect the commitment of Okayama University in supporting the UN's Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and their recognition as a pioneer in addressing regional healthcare challenges through innovation.