J.Jpn. Surg. Soc.. 126(6): 548-552, 2025

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Feature topic

FUELING THE FUTURE: EMPOWERING MEDICAL STUDENTS WITH THE SPIRIT OF PEDIATRIC SURGERY

In Hokkaido, the number of board-certified pediatric surgeons is extremely limited, with only a few specialists covering an exceptionally vast region. Since my appointment in 2018, I have devoted myself to nurturing the next generation through medical student education, engaging lectures, and hands-on clinical training, all while overcoming a demanding work environment. Fortunately, dedicated young physicians have joined our department and are growing through participation in national and international conferences. To ensure adequate surgical experience in a regional setting, we are considering the promotion of domestic fellowships and the development of future rotation systems. In line with the university’s mission, we emphasize not only clinical care but also research and education, with the goal of cultivating academic pediatric surgeons. Moving forward, key challenges include building a sustainable system aligned with work-style reforms and securing positions for pediatric surgery specialists in order to maintain and enhance the quality of pediatric surgical care.

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