Lighting a Light on Community Medicine: The Reforms of Akio Tanaka, a Doctor in Shinanomachi in the 1970s

Lighting a Light on Community Medicine: The Reforms of Akio Tanaka, a Doctor in Shinanomachi in the 1970s
In the 1970s, while Japan's medical system was making progress, the disparity in regional medical care was an issue. Shinanomachi physician Akio Tanaka adopted the philosophy of "medical care that is close to local residents," and focused not only on treatment but also on lifestyle improvement and preventive medicine. The "home-visit medical care" he advocated attracted attention for its support of the elderly and disabled and improved the health consciousness of the entire community. His efforts became a model for urban healthcare reform and are regarded as a cornerstone of current community healthcare. Dr. Tanaka's activities demonstrate that medical care should support the health of the entire community.