What question did this study set out to answer?

The research aims to identify challenges Japan faces in integrating international disaster medical response teams during major earthquakes.

March 25, 2026

Challenges and Strategies for Receiving International Disaster Medical Response Teams During Major Earthquakes in Japan

Key Points

The research aims to identify challenges Japan faces in integrating international disaster medical response teams during major earthquakes.
Conducted a tabletop exercise simulating a major earthquake in Japan.
Evaluated Japan's domestic support and response systems for international teams.
Analyzed operational gaps and logistical needs based on exercise findings.
Identified operational gaps in Japan’s disaster response policy regarding immigration and medical licenses.
Highlighted the absence of specific medical liaisons and the need for trained professionals.
Confirmed logistical challenges in communication setups and resource approvals that hinder effective response.

Abstract

Summary: In preparation for potential collaboration with international disaster medical response teams, particularly the U.S. DMAT, following a major earthquake in Japan, several challenges related to receiving international teams were identified. This study considers Japan’s approach to receiving international medical teams and identifies and addresses key challenges in receiving international disaster medical response teams, including U.S. DMAT, during major disasters in Japan. A tabletop exercise, simulating a major earthquake in Japan, was conducted to evaluate Japan’s domestic support and response systems for international disaster medical response teams. The results included: 1. Operational Gaps: Japan’s policy for large-scale disasters lacks specific guidelines on critical areas such as immigration procedures, verification of international medical licenses, logistics for pharmaceuticals, and management of communication and records. 2. Medical Liaison Need: Although the Ministry of Foreign Affairs provides liaison support, there is no plan for specific medical liaisons, highlighting the need to deploy trained DMAT or disaster medical professionals. 3. Logistical Challenges: The U.S. Embassy typically handles transportation and accommodations, but approvals are needed for communication setup, oxygen supplies, and medical resources, underscoring the need for pre-coordinated protocols. 4. US DMAT Exercise Findings: Virtual tabletop exercises with U.S. HHS and ASPR highlighted essential procedural steps for resource and operational alignment in a disaster. To integrate international disaster medical response teams effectively during major disasters like the anticipated Nankai Trough earthquake, Japan must establish SOPs tailored to these teams, including pre-planned logistical and medical liaison roles. These frameworks not only benefit US DMAT but also serve as a model for supporting other international teams, enhancing Japan’s disaster readiness through global collaboration.

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Cite This Study

Toyokuni et al. (Sun,) studied this question.

synapsesocial.com/papers/69c37afeb34aaaeb1a67d053 https://doi.org/https://doi.org/10.1017/s1049023x26102258

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