Japan's Medical Crisis: Resident Doctors Are Burning Out

In the summer of 2023, a young doctor in Kobe City, Japan, took his own life. He was a resident in internal medicine. He had worked 236 hours of overtime in just one month. This tragic event shone a spotlight on the harsh realities faced by young doctors in Japan. The culture of 'passion pay' in Japan has been a significant factor. It encourages young doctors to work incredibly hard. This intense work culture is not just a problem in Japan. It is a global issue. It is a serious issue that needs to be addressed. The problem is not just about long hours. It is about how tasks are given out and how doctors communicate with each other. Surveys show that nearly 3 in 10 young doctors feel burnt out. This is a huge number. It is a sign that the system is not working. Doctors are spending a lot of time on tasks that are not medical. These tasks could be done by other professionals. This means doctors are not using their time effectively. The primary physician model is another issue. It makes doctors responsible for patients even when they are not on duty. This adds to their workload.Japan needs to look at other industries for solutions. For example, Marui Group has policies that optimize tasks. Toyota has a system for anonymous feedback. These could be adapted for hospitals. Communication in hospitals needs to improve. Doctors need to feel supported. Hierarchical barriers make it hard for doctors to talk about their well-being. This needs to change. Doctors' well-being is directly linked to patient satisfaction and treatment success. If doctors are burnt out, patients suffer too. Hospitals need to prioritize the well-being of doctors. This will create a sustainable working environment for medical professionals. It is essential for the health of both doctors and patients. Japan's medical system is under extreme pressure. It is time for a change. The current system is not sustainable. It is not fair to the doctors or the patients. Doctors need support. They need a system that values their well-being. This will lead to better patient care. It is a win-win situation. But it requires a shift in mindset and policy.