Cooperative program for Asian pediatricians

Abstract

The Cooperative Program for Asian Pediatricians (CPAP) is a non-government organization established in 1989 to promote mutual understanding and friendship among young pediatricians in Asian countries. Unlike other government programs and non-government organizations, CPAP is solely facilitating mutual relationships among young inexperienced pediatricians who would otherwise have no chance to travel overseas. It has been funded by donations from members of the alumni association of the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Tokyo and many private companies and individuals. The Cooperative Program for Asian Pediatricians has so far invited 36 Asian pediatricians from 11 countries. By constructing a human network among Asian pediatricians, it is hoped that CPAP will contribute to making international cooperation in the Asian region easier and smoother.

PIP: In Japan, young pediatricians at the University of Tokyo began inviting young pediatricians from other Asian countries to Japan to introduce them to the medical system and to communicate with each other. The resulting Cooperative Program for Asian Pediatricians (CPAP), a voluntary nongovernmental organization, serves as an exchange program for young pediatricians from Japan and those from other Asian countries, who otherwise do not have the opportunity to travel abroad. In essence, it promotes mutual understanding and friendship. It does not aim to transfer specific medical knowledge or technologies to each other, but, if asked, CPAP does show them to the young pediatricians. CPAP activities once the young pediatricians arrive in Japan include orientation, welcome party, tour of the hospital at the University of Tokyo, visit to Tokyo Disneyland with patients, visit to regional hospitals, recreation day in Izu, visit to National Children's Hospital, visit health center, visit National Rehabilitation Center, general conference, and farewell party. They learn about the national and employees' medical insurance system. While in Japan, the young pediatricians stay at the homes of Japanese pediatricians. CPAP sends Japanese medical students to Asian countries where former CPAP participants work. Donations from various sources fund CPAP activities. CPAP has invited at least 36 pediatricians to Japan from 11 countries. Some common critical comments about the Japanese system were too many medical tests and shortage of nurses and primary health personnel. Some things that impressed CPAP participants were equity in medicine and hardworking pediatricians. The major difference between the Japanese medical system and that of participants was the medical insurance system.