Appreciation of 1-Month Rotation at Osaka Medical College

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1 Appreciation of 1-Month Rotation at Osaka Medical College Sueyun Kim 6 th grade-student Catholic University of Korea College of Medicine, There are not many fortunate times in which one can realize how precious the present moment is. However, throughout my stay in Osaka Medical College (OMC), I could feel that every fleeting second was pricelessly valuable. Although it was my first time in Japan and everything was very new to me, Takatsuki-shi felt like right at home for me. Even after I came back to Korea, I still consider it as my second home, and miss the time staying there. I know that I could have felt so comfortable only because Nakayama International Center for Medical Cooperation (NICMC) have prepared well for our stay. I enjoyed every event that OMC has provided for me and my classmates, and had great time in Osaka/Kyoto. I am very gland I came to OMC. First of all, the unique system of NICMC to rotate different department everyday let us see the big picture of Japanese medical system. One of the main reasons I applied to overseas medical institution as my elective rotation instead of just rotating in Korea was to see how medical colleges and hospitals in other countries are run and operated. I could infer how medical training system in Japan is by rotating 14 out of 29 departments of OMC. Also, through many conversations with professors on ups and downs of the system, I could deepen my understanding. By visiting diverse basic and clinical medicine departments, I had many new experiences and could understand extensively on how medical college and its affiliated hospital are connected in Japan.

2 During my rotation, I was able to see various aspects of Japanese medical environment. I was impressed with Japanese medical care system on various points, especially the attitude of the medical staff on patients. In rehabilitation department, I was surprised that one physical therapist was allotted for each and every patient who needed treatment. The surgery department would keep the temperature high until the patient is fully sedated, so they would not feel cold. The doctors, who are in contact with children, would level with them and draw pictures of Anpang-man for them. Every doctor, in between treatments, would always make sure if the patients feels alright, asking Kimochi waruii? Overall, I was moved by the hospitality, cautiousness, and thoughtful attitude towards patients.

3 Visiting other medical institutions such as National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Hospital, Hokusetsu General Hospital and Mishima Emergency Critical Center has also helped me a great deal in understanding the life of Japanese doctor. It showed how local, private, national and other medical centers interact. Not only was seeing different medical environment and systems interesting, I could imagine what kind of goals and motivations I would have if I were an OMC or a Japanese medical student.

4 Both National Cerebral and Cardiovascular Center Hospital, Hokusetsu General Hospital were special, but Mishima Emergency Critical Care Center was the most impressive. From what I understand, Mishima center is very unique hospital even in Japan. It was my first time seeing a institution solely for emergency patients. What was more surprising was that 10 or more emergency medicine degree doctors each with their own specialty would give full attention to one emergency patient at a time. I envy the system, and the support of the government that makes it all possible; the communication of knowledge between many professionals and the doctor car correspondence. Another thing I had such great time was having fun with OMC people! So many professors and students have spared their own precious time to show/tell us more about OMC, Takatsuki-shi, Osaka, Kyoto, and Japan. The professors used their time to teach us so much, even though it was obvious that they were very busy with their work. All kinds of dinners that we were invited were all fascinating: the grand welcome and farewell dinner with professors, NICMC staffs and OMC students, professor Kohno s retirement ceremony, pizza party, Kin no Buta shabushabu, Takoyaki party with OMC students. Also, occasional Japanese tea drinking with traditional sweets was also a unique experience that I enjoyed very much.

5 I would like to thank so many nice OMC students I met! Many members of Medical Training Support Center club came to school to teach us use machines like devices for practicing esophagogastroduodenoscopy, cholecystectomy or echocardiography even though it was during their spring vacation. The archery club members also showed us how to use the bow and the arrow, and let us shoot it at the target. They even showed us a beautiful traditional Japanese archery shooting ceremony. It was very sophisticated and showed the essence of Japanese culture. A group of 5 th and 6 th grade students showed us around Kyoto. Thanks to them, we were able to see the major sightseeing spots and taste many delicious snacks!

6 Lastly, I was very touched by the hospitality of Nakayama International Center and would like to thank every staff: welcoming and humorous Mr. Ogawa, attentive Ms. Matsumoto, and Ms. Hisada who always kept our back. They were all very considerate, and through their hospitality, we were able to be all safe and sound til we returned to Korea. I would like to especially thank Ms. Kimiko Matsumoto, who has guided us before and throughout the rotation course. She was always eager to lend a helping hand, and we benefited greatly from her. I would also like to show my gratitude to all the hospital members including professor Hanafusa. I know that what I had is a very special experience that is not permitted for everyone to have. Lee-san, Seo-kun, Park-kun and I are very honored and grateful to be chosen to come to OMC. I am very thankful, and wish to have a chance to visit OMC again!