Report of Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University

Report of Sidney Kimmel Medical College at Thomas Jefferson University

 

Country

Japan

School

Osaka Metropolitan University

Elective period

29th July to 2nd August 2024

 

During my observership program at Thomas Jefferson University, I had the opportunity to immerse myself in the U.S. medical scene. I am convinced that this valuable experience was made possible with the support of many people. I want to express my deepest gratitude to the Academic Affairs Office and the International Exchange Committee at Osaka Metropolitan University for giving me this opportunity, and to the Japan Center at Thomas Jefferson University for coordinating with various departments and arranging such a fulfilling schedule. In addition, I am grateful to all the healthcare professionals and medical students who helped and engaged with me during this program. Lastly, I would like to extend my sincere thanks to my four fellow participants who shared this journey.

This observership allowed me to notice the key distinctions between medical care in Japan and the United States. One of the clearest differences was how much medical students engaged in patient care. In the U.S., medical students play a significant role in planning patients’ treatments and are given opportunities to put their knowledge of medicine into practice. For example, during internal medicine team rounds, students actively debated changes in test results and looked at reasons and treatments. During these rounds, the treatment plan is finalized, and the students are integral to this process. This is less common in Japan where medical students are typically less involved in treatment planning and decision-making.

Participating in the student-run volunteer organization JeffHOPE also really inspired me. At the Eliza Shirley Women and Children’s Shelter, I saw how medical students care for uninsured and homeless individuals. The team consisted of medical students and a resident, and their work extended beyond medical care to distributing necessities such as clothing, medications, and diapers. Despite having few resources, medical students performed interviews and physical examinations in this setting. For example, they often couldn’t measure basic vitals like blood pressure or temperature, but the students were able to work around these limitations. I found this to be a valuable learning experience not only for clinical skills but also for fostering a sense of community among medical students. This experience allowed me to interact with U.S. residents on a level that is rare in Japan. We had opportunities to seek advice on career paths and medical specialties, which I found enlightening. I couldn’t help but think that a similar program would be beneficial in Japan, where there are fewer opportunities to engage with residents on this level.

In addition to clinical observations, we had simulation classes focused on system-based history-taking and interviewing standardized patients. These simulations were similar to the ones we use in Japan but with a greater emphasis on holistic patient care. Dr. Majdan taught us to look at and treat patients as persons rather than just medical conditions. This approach reminded me of Dr. Shutou’s lectures at my university in Japan, particularly in terms of patient-centered care.

Through this experience, I was inspired by the high level of competence and autonomy that U.S. medical students demonstrated. It also helped me to understand how Japanese medical practice emphasizes accuracy and thoroughness. Observing both systems has broadened my perspective on medical education and patient care, and I now have a clearer vision of my future career. I had previously thought of becoming a doctor in the United States, but this trip has helped me to clarify and better grasp what that path may involve, allowing me to focus on my career ambitions.

In conclusion, my observership at Thomas Jefferson University was an eye-opening and motivating experience. It provided me with valuable insights into both the strengths of the American medical system as well as the distinctive features of the Japanese healthcare system. I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this program and eager to apply the knowledge and skills I have gained to my clinical clerkship and my future career as a physician.