What question did this study set out to answer?

The aim is to evaluate a decentralized training model for improving physician recruitment and retention in rural Japan.

April 22, 2026Journal of General Internal Medicine0 citationsOpen Access

A Decentralized, Academically Integrated Training Model for Rural General Practice in Japan: A Descriptive Program Evaluation

KSKota SakaguchiShimane University TETakeshi EndoShimane University Hospital YSYoshihiko ShiraishiShimane University

Key Points

The aim is to evaluate a decentralized training model for improving physician recruitment and retention in rural Japan.
Descriptive program evaluation of the Neural GP Network and Virtual Office for GP residents.
Analysis included recruitment and retention data from 2018–2026.
Evaluation of digital communication and community engagement metrics.
Annual recruitment averaged 15.8%, significantly higher than the national average of 2.6%.
88.1% of residents remained in the network after training, exceeding rural Japan's estimated retention of ~50%.
The Virtual Office facilitated extensive communication with 26,787 messages and 6803 files exchanged.

Abstract

Abstract Background Rural physician shortages persist globally, with professional isolation a major barrier. Traditional incentives have limited effects on long-term retention. Aim To describe the decentralized, academically integrated training model at Shimane University General Medicine Center (SGMC) and evaluate recruitment and retention outcomes. Setting Shimane Prefecture, a rural, aging region in Japan. Participants Forty-two General Practice residents (2018–2025). Program Description SGMC implemented a prefecture-wide “Neural GP Network” community of practice and a “Virtual Office” using Slack and Zoom. Residents completed longitudinal rural placements in local care teams. Program Evaluation Annual recruitment averaged 15.8% of specialty trainees, significantly exceeding the national average (2.6%; P < 0.001). As of January 2026, 88.1% (37/42) remained in the prefectural network, exceeding estimates for rural Japan (~ 50%). The Virtual Office generated 26,787 messages and 6803 files (Feb 2024–Jan 2025). Since 2021, affiliates published 58 English-language papers. Discussion Over 8 years, this hybrid model integrating digital networking with longitudinal training was associated with strong workforce stability, representing a promising approach to strengthen rural primary care.

Demander à l'IA

Bookmark

View Full Paper