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Innovative Online Healthcare Service in Okushi City

In a progressive move towards enhancing maternal and child healthcare, Okushi City in Iwate Prefecture, Japan, has partnered with Kids Public Co., Ltd., a company based in Tokyo. This collaboration has led to the launch of the 'Obstetrics and Pediatrics Online' service, available to local residents starting July 15, 2026.

This pioneering service allows consultations with a network of over 250 pediatricians, obstetricians, and midwives through an online platform, making it accessible 24/7. Initially trialed from July 1, 2025, feedback from the community has prompted this official rollout, aimed at creating a supportive environment for families navigating pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting.

Addressing Challenges for Expectant Parents

The implementation of this service is a response to the significant need for emotional and informational support among expectant and new parents. Okushi City identified feelings of isolation and anxiety as major issues for families during pregnancy and child-rearing. To combat this, the city has focused on extending support beyond traditional office hours, providing a resource where parents can seek guidance at any time.

In addition to emergency consultations through the existing services like ‘#8000’ (Child Medical Telephone Consultation) and ‘#7119’ (Emergency Relief Center), the new online platform seeks to facilitate casual inquiries. The city aims to provide accurate information easily, allowing residents to feel secure in their parenting journey.

During the trial phase, users reported various benefits, stating:

• - “I want to consult regarding parenting issues and when is the right time to visit a hospital.”
• - “Having a platform like the 'Obstetrics and Pediatrics Online' is reassuring when I need to consult but it’s not an emergency.”
• - “Being able to access these services free of charge has been incredibly helpful, and I plan to use this resource in the future.”

These responses indicate a clear appreciation of the service, demonstrating its potential to support families in multiple aspects of healthcare.

Creating a Seamless Support System

The formal introduction of this online service on July 15, 2026, aims to establish a continuous support system through various life stages. By creating spaces where parents can seek advice freely, Okushi City is fostering the realization of a 'Child-Centric Society.' This aligns with the city’s vision where every child grows up healthy and every parent finds comfort in their parenting experience.

About Okushi City

Nestled in the southern part of Iwate Prefecture, Okushi City is known for its rich natural surroundings, flanked by the North Kamaishi Plateau to the east and the Ou Mountains to the west. It’s a prime agricultural area known for its rice production and boasts a blend of commerce and industry facilitated by its strategic transport connections.

In line with the '3rd Phase Okushi City Children and Childcare Support Plan', the city is dedicated to overcoming the challenges faced by families due to changing dynamics in households and community ties. By enhancing support environments tailored to various life stages, Okushi City strives to realize an inclusive community where everyone is supported in parenting and caring for children.

Services Provided by 'Obstetrics and Pediatrics Online'

Residents of Okushi City will have access to a range of online consultation services with pediatricians, obstetricians, and midwives, including:

• - Anytime Consultation: A Q&A format allowing users to send messages to medical professionals via the website, with responses typically within 24 hours.
• - Evening Consultations: Scheduled for weekdays from 6 PM to 10 PM, where users can reserve 10-minute slots for conversation through LINE chat or video calls.
• - Daytime Midwifery Consultation: Available on weekdays from 1 PM to 5 PM, allowing users to chat with midwives without needing a reservation.
• - Consultation Search: A platform compiling reliable case studies crafted by healthcare professionals, enabling users to find similar past inquiries.

About Kids Public

Founded in 2015 by pediatrician Naoya Hashimoto, Kids Public has a history of delivering online healthcare consultation services. After launching 'Pediatrics Online' in 2016, the company expanded to include obstetric services in 2018 and midwifery consultations in 2023. With over 30,000 inquiries handled and a roster of over 250 healthcare professionals, Kids Public has proven its capability to offer constant online support. Their service offerings include various channels for healthcare access, with a focus on leveraging technology to create a seamless support system.

For Inquiries

For more information, contact Kids Public's public relations team via phone or email:

• - Phone: 050-1732-0536
• - Email: [email protected]

Okushi City, through this initiative, aims to empower its residents and create a community where parenting is a shared journey, supported by reliable, accessible healthcare.