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Shortage of pediatricians in Japan: a longitudinal analysis using physicians' survey data

Hiroo Ide1, Hideo Yasunaga, Soichi Koike

  • 1Department of Planning, Information, and Management, The University of Tokyo Hospital, Tokyo, Japan. idea-tky@umin.ac.jp

Pediatrics International : Official Journal of the Japan Pediatric Society
|May 8, 2009
PubMed

Insights

Japan faces a pediatrician shortage. While the number of pediatricians per child increased, younger doctors are leaving the field, potentially worsening the deficit without intervention.

Area of Science:

  • Medical Workforce Analysis
  • Public Health Policy
  • Pediatric Workforce Dynamics

Background:

  • Japan is experiencing a critical shortage of hospital-based pediatricians.
  • Understanding pediatrician dynamics is crucial for addressing this healthcare gap.

Purpose of the Study:

  • To analyze the trends and distribution of pediatricians in Japan from 1974 to 2004.
  • To identify factors influencing pediatrician numbers and retention.

Main Methods:

  • Utilized data from the Survey of Physicians, Dentists, and Pharmacists in Japan.
  • Employed a time series approach to examine pediatrician numbers, demographics, and geographic distribution.
  • Analyzed physician entry, withdrawal, and movement rates within pediatrics.

Main Results:

  • The pediatrician-to-child ratio rose significantly from 1.9 to 7.4 per 10,000 children between 1974 and 2004.
  • Female pediatricians constituted a higher percentage compared to women in all physician categories in 2004.
  • Physician withdrawal from pediatrics increased, with younger pediatricians showing higher early departure rates.

Conclusions:

  • A future decrease in Japan's pediatrician count is projected without targeted strategies.
  • Addressing early withdrawal among younger pediatricians is essential.
  • Improving working conditions for female pediatricians is a key recommendation.
Abstract

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