#Japan #Takahashi #Kids Public #Takahashi City #online health

Introduction

In April 2026, Takahashi City in Okayama Prefecture will officially launch an online consultation service for obstetrics and pediatrics, known as "産婦人科・小児科オンライン" (Obstetrics and Pediatrics Online), by Kids Public, Inc. This initiative comes after a successful trial period which began on August 1, 2025.

With this service, residents will be able to conveniently consult with obstetricians, pediatricians, and midwives through their smartphones. This move aims to create a supportive environment for families during pregnancy, childbirth, and child-rearing in Takahashi City.

Background to the Initiative

Takahashi City has been proactive in addressing healthcare needs for its residents, establishing its own medical plan in 2018 and a second plan in 2025. The city is focusing on strengthening its regional healthcare system, particularly amidst challenges such as a shortage of medical professionals and the absence of obstetric facilities. In this context, the introduction of online consultations plays a key role in meeting the needs of the community.

Parents in the area have expressed a desire for improved support systems for perinatal and pediatric healthcare, particularly in light of general anxieties about medical issues. The online service provides a solution, allowing for expert consultations at any time, regardless of location.

During the trial phase, feedback from users highlighted the practicality of the service, with many appreciating the 24-hour access and the empathetic responses from healthcare providers. Over 80% of respondents indicated that the existence of a free online service positively affected their perception of municipal support for pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting.

With the official launch in April 2026, the residents of Takahashi City will benefit greatly from this system, further aiding the city's goal of being a supportive environment for families raising children.

Online Consultation Features

Residents of Takahashi City will have free access to various consultation services within the platform:

• - 24/7 Consultation: Users can send messages through a web form at any time and will receive responses from healthcare professionals within 24 hours.
• - Evening Consults: Scheduled video consultations can be arranged on weekdays from 6 PM to 10 PM.
• - Daytime Midwife Consultations: Users can chat with midwives on weekdays without needing a reservation.
• - Consultation Search: A database of previously answered queries is available for users to browse, allowing them to find answers relevant to their own concerns.

About Takahashi City

Takahashi City is located in the western part of Okayama and is known for its mild climate and safe living conditions. The city is rich in history and culture, highlighted by sites such as the Bitchu Matsuyama Castle and the origins of Japan Red in Buke, both designated as cultural heritage sites. Additionally, the presence of local universities contributes to a vibrant community.

The city government sees regional healthcare as essential to community development and has implemented several initiatives, such as emergency transport support and continuous consultation services for mothers and families. The new online health consultation service is part of an innovative approach to maternal and infant healthcare that integrates digital technologies while honoring the area's historical context.

About Kids Public

Founded in Tokyo by pediatrician Naoya Hashimoto in 2015, Kids Public, Inc. launched the "小児科オンライン" (Pediatrics Online) in 2016, followed by the obstetrics service the following year. The company has over 150,000 registered users and has handled more than 300,000 consultations to date, showcasing a robust network of over 250 healthcare professionals specializing in pediatrics and obstetrics.

Kids Public is committed to providing continuous support throughout the pregnancy and child-rearing stages by utilizing ICT, with a strong emphasis on research and evidence for the effectiveness of their online services.

Conclusion

The introduction of the Obstetrics and Pediatrics Online service in Takahashi City marks a significant step towards enhancing healthcare accessibility for families in the area. As residents can now easily access professional advice and support, the municipality moves closer to realizing its vision of being a nurturing place for raising children.